William Friedkin, opera director

'William Friedkin once again brings success to the operatic stage with his profound insights and innate qualities that result in a standing ovation. This is truly one of the finest productions The Dorothy Chandler has ever seen. '

Concerto.net - Il Trittico (Los Angeles Opera)

William Friedkin is probably best known for films such as The French Connection (1971) and The Exorcist (1973), one of the most terrifying films of all time and the winner of several Academy Awards.

In recent years he has also established himself as an internationally-acclaimed and sought-after opera director. His work has included productions in Florence (Wozzeck), Los Angeles (Duke Bluebeard’s Castle / Gianni Schicchi and Ariadne auf Naxos), and most recently he has enjoyed a huge success at the Bayerische Staatsoper, Munich with new productions of Salome and the world premiere of Wolfgang Rihm's Das Gehege, in a collaboration with conductor Kent Nagano.