What's happened
Recent developments in the opera world include a top singer boycotting major venues over ideological disputes, the death of influential director Rhoda Levine, and new leadership at Covent Garden with Jakub Hruša and Michele Scappucci. These shifts highlight ongoing debates about tradition, modernization, and financial sustainability in opera.
What's behind the headline?
The current crisis in opera stems from a clash between tradition and innovation. The decision by star Jonas Kaufmann to boycott top venues underscores a broader dissatisfaction with the industry's resistance to change. Vincent’s critique in 'Opera Wars' highlights how outdated business models and cultural conflicts hinder growth. Meanwhile, leadership shifts at Covent Garden, with Jakub Hruša and Michele Scappucci, suggest a strategic move toward more diverse and modern programming. These changes will likely reshape the industry’s future, making it more adaptable but also risking alienation of traditional audiences. The industry’s reliance on donations and the slow pace of scheduling adjustments will challenge these leaders to balance innovation with financial stability.
What the papers say
The New York Times emphasizes the importance of Rhoda Levine’s groundbreaking work in realism and theatrical acting, noting her influence on modern opera. Adam Nossiter highlights her legacy and her role in shaping 20th-century opera. Meanwhile, the NY Post discusses Jonas Kaufmann’s decision to withdraw from major venues, framing it as a sign of ideological and artistic tensions. The articles collectively reveal a tension between preserving tradition and embracing change, with industry leaders like Hruša and Scappucci positioning themselves as catalysts for renewal amidst financial and cultural hurdles.
How we got here
The opera industry has faced longstanding challenges related to financial models, cultural relevance, and artistic innovation. Recent leadership changes and debates over traditional staging reflect efforts to modernize and address declining audiences, especially among first-time ticket buyers. The death of pioneering director Rhoda Levine marks the loss of a key figure who pushed for realism and theatrical acting in opera.
Go deeper
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Sir Antonio Pappano (born 30 December 1959) is an English-Italian conductor and pianist. Between 2002 and 2024, he was the longest-serving music director of the Royal Opera House. Since 2024, he has served as chief conductor of the London Symphony Orches
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Speranza Scappucci (born 9 April 1973 in Rome) is an Italian conductor and pianist.