The Paris National Opera pays tribute to Robert Wilson, a leading figure in avant-garde theater and opera, who passed away at the age of 83.

With his unique style—a combination of sculpted lighting, minimalist gestures, and stretched time—he revolutionized the art of stage direction and created spellbinding performances imbued with infinite poetry. Attending a Robert Wilson production was an experience of total art, hypnotic, demanding, and deeply sensory.

Born in Texas in 1941, he made a striking debut on the French art scene with Le Regard du sourd in 1971, a play that founded a new way of thinking about space, silence and the body. This extraordinary performance – without words and lasting seven hours – broke new ground in the theatrical landscape and influenced an entire generation of artists. Four years later, Einstein on the Beach, conceived with Philip Glass and Lucinda Childs, pushed the boundaries of opera.

He was a loyal, inspiring, and visionary companion to the Paris Opera. His connection with the institution dates back to 1984, with the premiere of Gavin Bryars' Medea. He went on to direct a series of memorable productions, ranging from the classical repertoire to more contemporary works: Le Martyre de saint Sébastien (1988), The Magic Flute (1991), Madame Butterfly (1993), Pelléas et Mélisande (1997), The Woman Without a Shadow (2002), The Temptation of Saint Anthony (2005), The Coronation of Poppea (2014), and Turandot (2021).

He was also the director of the inaugural performance at the Opéra Bastille, La nuit avant le jour, given on July 13, 1989, on the eve of its official opening.

His highly personal vision of great operas – Madame Butterfly, which continues to move audiences more than 30 years after its premiere, and more recently Turandot – has left a lasting mark on the history of the Paris Opera. His formal rigor, his ability to reveal the invisible aspects of works, and his sensitive ear for music—inherited from his admiration for George Balanchine—have left a powerful mark.

A multifaceted creator, Robert Wilson has also distinguished himself in the visual arts, with works exhibited around the world. Founder of the Watermill Center, he has been a tireless supporter of young artists, making the center an international laboratory for the performing arts.

The Paris Opera is keen to pay tribute to this extraordinary artist, whose immense rigour and work helped redefine what opera staging can be. He leaves our house with fond memories, unforgettable images and a living legacy.

The Opéra national de Paris salutes the memory of this great artist and extends its thoughts to his family, his colleagues, and all those who were touched by his tireless formal research and high standards.