Knighting of Peter Jonas
In last month’s issue of Munich Found the director of the Bavarian State Opera was mentioned as being an avid cricket player. Now it is time to salute the newly decorated Knight Bachelor. On the recommendation of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles knighted Peter Jonas at Buckingham Palace on April 27 for his exemplary involvement in opera and theater. Sir Peter, his official title now, was director of the English National Opera in London from 1984 to 1993 before he was appointed Staatsintendant (state theatrical director) of the Bavarian State Opera in Munich. In the past seven years he has revived and rejuvenated the Munich opera house while broadening its appeal. The recent honor acknowledges his creative work, which, it is hoped, the city will enjoy for many years to come. When, during the ceremony, Prince Charles asked Sir Peter to return to London, the knight had to turn down the royal request because, as he replied, he is planning to stay in his adopted home city of Munich until retirement.