La Scala marks Verdi, Wagner bicentennials, dismisses criticism of ‘Lohengrin’ gala
MILAN – The dual bicentennial of the births of composers Giuseppe Verdi and Richard Wagner is turning into a dueling bicentennial.
La Scala general manager Stephane Lissner on Monday dismissed as “ridiculous” criticism by the Italian media because the famed Milan opera house that was once Verdi’s musical home is opening the celebratory season with Wagner’s “Lohengrin.”
No less than Italy’s respected President Giorgio Napolitano entered the fray. He wrote a letter to musical director Daniel Barenboim rejecting press rumours that he was snubbing the gala season opener on Friday.
Napolitano said he has state business to attend to in Rome, and called polemics over the staging of a Wagner opera “futile” and “pathetic.” He recalled attending a 1981 performance of “Lohengrin” at La Scala and welcomed its return after 30 years.
News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Join the Conversation!
Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.