Let's make this birthday one to remember.

81 years old (Born on November 25, 1943)

Happy Birthday to the legendary Gerard Mortier! Your visionary leadership at Opéra National de Paris from 2004 until 2009 transformed opera into a thrilling adventure, blending tradition with daring innovation. Who else could make Mozart feel edgy and Wagner seem fresh?

Your fearless approach brought unforgettable productions that still echo through opera houses today. Whether it was your bold staging choices or passionate advocacy for contemporary works, you always kept audiences on their toes—and occasionally raised eyebrows too!

Here's wishing you another year filled with standing ovations, dramatic entrances (and exits), and plenty of reasons to shout "Bravo!"