Behind the Curtain with Anja Gossens
To kick off the first live recording on a high note (sorry, we had to!), we were honored to partner with the Berlin State Opera to interview their Head of Development, Anja Gossens, about her personal journey and responsibility for the opera's development, and why the Phantom of the Opera could actually be real.
A cornerstone of Germany's cultural heritage, the Berlin State Opera dates back to the 18th century. Located in the heart of Berlin on Unter den Linden, the opera continues to captivate audiences from around the world, demonstrating the power of music and performance and enriching the city's cultural identity and expression.
Against a breathtaking backdrop and over twenty WAA Podcast guests, we joined Anja to discuss the complex intersection of art, culture and society, and its transformative power. Whether you are an opera lover or discovering it for the first time, this live podcast will leave you captivated by the sheer power of contemporary opera.
“Apart from the instruments and the people, music does not relate to something material…it’s about energy. This is why every sentient being can relate to it.”
A true trailblazer in every sense of the word when it comes to the vast world of arts and culture, Anja brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her position as Head of Development. Responsible for all of the company's partnerships and corporate sponsors, Gossens sees her role as "building narratives" with a focus on the people and the doors that opera can open, whilst at the same time welcoming progression and even the conflict that may come with it.
"You have to let yourself progress and others progress…that means you have conflict either with yourself or with others. This is something you can learn from."
Never one to shy away from advances in technology and trends, Anja’s innovative approach to making opera accessible to all through social media and communications over the past seven years is just one example of her commitment to preserving the legacy and shaping the future of this cultural institution.
The intimate evening finished with an exclusive tour through the opera house. A heartfelt thank you to Anja for sharing your expertise, the magnificent Opera House, and of course the WAA guests who make each of these live podcasts so special.
