Jo Davies Resigns from Opera Australia Amid Disputes Over Artistic Vision and Board Decisions

Jo Davies leaves her role as Opera Australia's artistic director after unresolved conflicts with the board and CEO Fiona Allan.

Jo Davies, the artistic director of Opera Australia, resigned from her position after just nine months in charge, citing pending problems with the board and CEO Fiona Allan. The sudden exit comes after a string of arguments concerning the artistic direction of the company and the involvement of foreign talent in shows.

Davies' resignation, announced on August 30, was influenced by differences in opinion regarding the balance between artistic innovation and commercial considerations. Sources revealed that a mediation attempt earlier in the year, aimed at resolving disputes between Davies and Allan, ultimately did not prevent the split.

The board’s chair, Rod Sims, stated that Davies’ departure was a mutual decision, emphasizing that ongoing discussions had led to this conclusion. The artistic director's exit is the third high-profile resignation of a female leader in the cultural sector this month, following similar departures at Queensland Ballet and Adelaide Festival.

Davies, who had taken several approved leaves and attended international conferences, expressed disappointment over the lack of alignment on key issues, such as balancing artistic vision with commercial demands. She justified her attempts to help up-and-coming Australian talent and contribute to the company's future in spite of the difficulties.

Financially troubled Opera Australia is predicted to declare a deficit for 2024, having already had a $4.9 million loss in 2023. While the group continues to negotiate these challenging times, a search is currently underway for a new artistic director.