David McVicar’s new production of I masnadieri (The Robbers) for La Scala features a monumental set by Charles Edwards which is modified during the opera, but largely remains the same, so there is a line of showers (functional) alongside a tomb and a series of tavern tables and benches all within the entrance hall of a castle. It is beautifully lit throughout by Adam … [Read more...] about Verdi’s I masnadieri at La Scala is dark and wonderful in David McVicar’s exciting production
Michele Mariotti
La Scala, Milan: Opera and Recital Season 2018 – 2019
OPERA SEASON 2018 - 2019La Scala announced its 2018-2019 Opera season today with 15 titles, nine of which are new productions, and two are La Scala premieres.At the heart of the season remains the Italian repertoire, continuing with the cycle of works of Verdi, Puccini, Verismo (which will return in 2020 with Giordano’s Fedora and Montemezzi’s L’amore dei tre re), and the … [Read more...] about La Scala, Milan: Opera and Recital Season 2018 – 2019
Maria José Siri answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition
Q&A in italianoWhen did you start singing? I started as young girl… for as long as I can remember.Why did you start singing? I started by accident. I was supposed to go to my saxophone class, but I was given the wrong day and time of the lesson, and therefore I found myself attending a voice class.Which singers inspired you the most when you were … [Read more...] about Maria José Siri answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition
Franco Vassallo answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition
Q&A in italianoWhen did you start singing? When I was 11 to a disc of Rigoletto with Gobbi, Callas and Di Stefano; a blanket on my shoulder and an umbrella served as my cloak and sword!Above all I loved "La donna è mobile" and the role of the Duke of Mantua; my voice would crack but I didn’t give in!Why did you start singing? Because I thought it was … [Read more...] about Franco Vassallo answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition
La Scala, Milan: Opera and Recital Season 2017 – 2018
A pleasing new season at La Scala seems to tick all the right boxes, with half the programming dedicated to the Italian repertoire, some rarities, important international operas and a world premiere. The season will also mark the 40th Anniversary of Riccardo Chailly’s collaboration with the theatre, and the 95th birthday of Franco Zeffirelli.The 2017-2018 Season kicks … [Read more...] about La Scala, Milan: Opera and Recital Season 2017 – 2018
La Scala soprano forced to renounce opening night and broadcast of new production
La Scala hasn't had it easy over the last few months with cast changes for both the opera and the ballet: Cecilia Bartoli's concert to close the Expo season in October was annulled on the day; Carlos Álvarez pulled out Giovanna d'Arco on the opening night of the season which was broadcast live; La Scala held the curtain for I due Foscari as Michele Gamba rushed to the theatre … [Read more...] about La Scala soprano forced to renounce opening night and broadcast of new production
Anna Pirozzi answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition
Q&A in italiano When did you start singing? Opera at 25… Pop music at 16Why did you start singing? It was love at first sight.Which singer inspired you most when you were young? Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston.Which singer do you most admire? Maria Callas.What’s your favourite role? Aida, Leonora in Trovatore, Maddalena de Coigny in Andrea … [Read more...] about Anna Pirozzi answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition