La Scala

The Teatro alla Scala (or La Scala for short), in Milan, Italy, is one of the world's most famous opera houses.

Recent Developments

The theatre was closed for renovation from 19 January 2002 to November 2004 on a project by the Ticinese architect Mario Botta. During the closure, the opera company was transferred to the new Teatro degli Arcimboldi, far from the city centre. The renovation proved controversial as preservationists feared that historic details would be lost; however, the opera company was said to be impressed with improvements to the structure and the sound quality, which was enhanced when the heavy red carpets in the hall were removed. The stage was entirely re-constructed, and an enlarged backstage will allow more sets to be stored, permitting more productions, and the seats now include monitors allowing audiences to follow opera libretti in English, French, and Italian. http://www.cbc.ca/story/arts/national/2004/11/05/Arts/lascalareopen041105.html. Tickets for the re-opening fetched up to ?2,000. The renovations cost a reported ?61 million, and left a budget shortfall that the opera house is not expected to overcome until 2006.http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/4297413.stm

Related Topics:
19 January - 2002 - 2004 - Ticinese - Mario Botta - 2006

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Carlo Fontana, the general manager of La Scala since 1990, was dismissed in February 2005 by the board of governors over differences with the music director, Riccardo Muti. The resulting staff backlash has caused serious disruptions and staff strikes. In a statement, the theater's board said it was "urgent to unify the theatre's management". On March 16, 2005, the La Scala orchestra and other staff voted overwhelmingly in no confidence motion against Muti, and demanded the resignation of Fontana's replacement, Mauro Meli. Muti had already been forced to cancel a concert a few days earlier because of the disagreements. Italy's culture minister, Giuliano Urbani, supports the conductor, but has called for urgent action by management to safeguard the smooth operation and prestige of La Scala. On April 2 2005, Muti resigned from La Scala, citing "hostility" from staff members.

Related Topics:
1990 - 2005 - Riccardo Muti - March 16 - April 2

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