The cliché “better late than never” is the same in Italian – “meglio tardi che mai” – and is certainly adapt for the renowned octogenarian conductor, pianist and composer André Previn, who will make his début at Milan‘s legendary theatre on 24 October.
A surprise début too, because 89-years-old Georges Prêtre, who was down to conduct three concerts with the La Scala Philharmonic Orchestra (Filarmonica della Scala), has been forced to withdraw for health reasons. The programme will remain unvaried: Brahms’ 3rd and 4th symphonies.
Graham Spicer, aka ‘Gramilano’, is a writer, director and photographer based in Milan. He was a regular columnist for Opera Now magazine and wrote for the BBC until transferring to Italy. His articles have appeared in various publications from Woman’s Weekly to Gay Times, and he wrote the Danza in Italia column for Dancing Times magazine. Graham was the historical advisor on Codice Carla, the 2023 documentary on Carla Fracci.
Graham also works as a dance photographer, and his photos have appeared in many books, theatre programmes, and magazines, including Dancing Times, Dance Spirit and Ballet2000, as well as all the major Italian newspapers.
He is a member of the Dance Section of The Critics’ Circle.
Scott C Morgan sees David McVicar’s 2008 production of Salome, which feels more relevant today after the #MeToo movement and the Epstein files scandals.