Antwerp Symphony Orchestra en Opera Ballet Vlaanderen fuseren

ANTWERP - Antwerp Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and Opera Ballet Vlaanderen (OBV) are joining forces and will merge into a single arts institution as of 1 March 2026. The merger was established in consultation with the Flemish Government, which provides its support and approval. The general meetings of both organisations formally approved the merger on 26 February 2026.

The new organisation will become a single legal entity with one governing body and one management team. The two orchestras will continue to exist, each retaining its own specific remit.

This joining of forces creates an artistic beacon that encompasses, supports, and strategically aligns the disciplines of opera, dance, and symphonic music. In the future, collaboration between the various disciplines will offer unique opportunities for ground-breaking productions, which will strengthen Flanders' international position as a cultural region. At the same time, the merger allows for even greater artistic ambition.

New structure

The organisation will be temporarily led by a transition management team headed by Jan Raes, currently the general director of OBV.

Jan Raes: "I know the strengths of both houses very well. This new institution allows us to create a biotope in which the immense talent of our diverse artists can flourish even further. In this way, we are building on the rich tradition of both houses to write an inspiring story together for our audience, our artists, and our staff."

 

Flemish Minister for Culture Caroline Gennez:
"With this merger, we are laying the foundation for a future-proof arts institution that can compete at the highest international level. By uniting these two complementary institutions, we not only guarantee top artistic quality and a strong cultural profile at home and abroad, but we also strengthen the entire Flemish arts sector. This institution will become a catalyst and an example in terms of inclusion and contemporary, unifying leadership. At the same time, it is firmly committed to participatory and educational activities that attract a broad and diverse audience. In other words, it will become one of the crown jewels of artistic Flanders."

Opera Ballet Vlaanderen and Antwerp Symphony Orchestra will continue to communicate their programming under their existing names for the time being. A new name, logo, and corporate identity are planned for the 2028-2029 season.