Michael Hampe (1935–2022) was an opera director and leading artistic director. Born in Heidelberg and educated in the United States, Munich, and Vienna, he served as general director of the Mannheim State Theatre and later directed the Cologne Opera for 20 years, shaping its artistic vision.
He was a member of the board of directors of the Salzburg Festival and directed at major opera houses around the world, including La Scala, Covent Garden and the Paris National Opera.
As a professor, he educated future professionals in the field of theater. Michael Hampa received many awards, including the Grand Cross of Germany.
