Hamburg Ballett

The city of Hamburg has always been a city of dance, with the first ballet performances dating back as far as 1765. In 1973, a unique chapter in German dance history began when John Neumeier, then 34 years old, was appointed ballet director of the Hamburg State Opera. For 51 years, John Neumeier led the Hamburg company — later as artistic director — and shaped it into what it is today: one of Europe’s leading, internationally renowned ballet companies.

In 1978, John Neumeier founded the Hamburg Ballet School. About three-quarters of the ensemble were graduates of this school, which is affiliated with the Hamburg Ballet. In 2011, he founded the Bundesjugendballett, of which he remains artistic director to this day.

The works of John Neumeier, who created over 170 ballets in Hamburg, remain a cornerstone of the Hamburg Ballet’s repertory. His pieces often explore literary, historical or religious themes. Neumeier’s style blends the tradition of classical ballet with modern, contemporary forms, whereby he creates a distinctive choreographic language. In addition, the Hamburg Ballet’s extensive repertory features works by other renowned choreographers such as Pina Bausch, William Forsythe, Hans van Manen and Christopher Wheeldon. The company is regarded as an exceptionally creative partner in the presentation of new works and has, as a result, produced a large number of highly promising and successful choreographers from within its own ranks.

Since September 2025, the Hamburg Ballet has been led by Lloyd Riggins as artistic director and Nicolas Hartmann as managing director. Lloyd Riggins is a former celebrated principal dancer with the Hamburg Ballet; he has served as the company’s ballet master since 2006 and additionally held the position of deputy artistic director since 2015. Nicolas Hartmann has been part of the ballet management team since 2007; he has served as manager of ballet operations since 2021. Together, they bring many years of experience and a deep connection to the city of Hamburg and its unique ballet ensemble.