In a major announcement this morning, Arts Minister Andrea Michaels has revealed the appointment of renowned Australian-Chinese conductor Dane Lam as the new Artistic Director of State Opera South Australia.
Lam, who officially assumes his role today, brings with him a rich tapestry of international experiences and a celebrated history of collaborations with some of the industry’s most respected figures.
Dane Lam is no stranger to the global stage, currently holding prominent positions as the Music Director of the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra and the Principal Conductor and Artistic Director of China’s Xi’an Symphony Orchestra. His career, a vibrant journey that spans across continents, is marked by a series of remarkable milestones and collaborations with some big names.
Lam’s illustrious career is highlighted by a series of notable achievements, including a critically acclaimed London debut where he masterfully conducted Rossini’s “La Cenerentola” at Opera Holland Park. His leadership played a pivotal role in rejuvenating the orchestral and operatic scene in Australia, steering it through the challenging times following the 2020 Covid-19 lockdowns.
In his tenure with the Xi’an Symphony Orchestra, which spanned nearly a decade, Lam made history as the first non-Chinese national Chief Conductor of a Chinese orchestra. His visionary approach transformed the city’s musical landscape, attracting world-renowned guest artists and introducing the magic of opera to a new audience.
Lam’s commitment to enriching the musical tapestry extends to championing contemporary composers like Michael-Thomas Foumai, Zhao Jiping, and Salina Fisher, as well as reviving the works of neglected maestros of yesteryears. His performances have graced prestigious venues, including a memorable rendition of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Terracotta Warriors Museum.
Most recently, Lam showcased his leadership and philanthropic spirit by spearheading the “Maui Ola: A Benefit Concert for Maui”, a national televised event that raised over one million dollars to aid the recovery efforts following the Maui wildfires.
This new chapter in State Opera South Australia is also marked by the appointment of a new Chair, Ashley Miller, who assumed his role on 7th September. Miller, a partner at KPMG and a professor at Adelaide University, plans to leverage his expertise in governance, finance, and accounting, coupled with his deep passion for opera, to steer the State Opera towards a promising future.
Arts Minister Andrea Michaels said it was fantastic to welcome both Dane and Ashley to State Opera South Australia.
“Dane has a long and celebrated history that has taken him across the globe, working with some of the best in the business, and I’m looking forward to him bringing his considerable talents to South Australia.”
:I look forward to this new leadership team cementing our state’s reputation for brilliant opera and I thank the outgoing team for their passion, tremendous skill and hard work.”
New State Opera Artistic Director Dane Lam said “I’ve long admired State Opera and its trailblazing work presenting a succession of Australian firsts, bringing more opera to more people across the state, and stewarding this most human of art forms.”
“The skill of storytelling through the power of the unamplified human voice, opera is an art form that stands apart for its ability to unite music, words, drama, design and much more – an exemplar of people working together to tell stories that speak to universal themes. This is what inspires me.”
“I’m honoured to build on Stuart Maunder’s vibrant work, and to move the company towards its 50th anniversary in 2026. My vision is to champion Australian artists and opera makers in joyous, diverse works in partnership with Executive Director Mark Taylor and the whole team.”
State Opera Executive Director Mark Taylor said “We have had a change of guard at State Opera over the past year and these appointments finalise our new team that will shape the next chapter of our history. I’m excited to not only work with these great people, but to be a part of shaping this company’s future.”
“Outgoing Artistic Director Stuart Maunder has been a game-changer within the company and has had so many highlights over his time with State Opera. I would like to thank him and outgoing Chair, Master Elizabeth Olsson for their unwavering steadfast commitment and passion in their roles.”
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