Milan Scala's Insights on the Potential Strategies of Dominique Meyer's Replacement
New Leadership at Milan's Scala: Fortunato Ortombina Takes the Reins
Milan's Scala, the world-renowned opera house, is set for a news era as Fortunato Ortombina assumes the role of its leader. The Italian native becomes the first Italian to hold this position since 2005, succeeding Dominique Meyer who retired at the age of 70.
Ortombina, who previously served as the artistic director of the opera house La Fenice in Venice, made his first appearance in Vienna, a city from which many tourists travel to the Scala. He praised Vienna, the world's music capital, and its repertoire system.
The new opera season at Milan's Scala will open on December 7 with "Lady Macbeth of Mzensk" by Shostakovich. Riccardo Chailly will conduct the season opening of the new opera season. However, no information was provided about Chailly's previous role or departure from the Scala.
Ortombina stands "100 percent" behind the season program that was largely planned by his predecessor, Dominique Meyer. The program includes a new production of Verdi's "Nabucco" with Anna Netrebko, Luca Salsi, Francesco Meli, and others participating.
In addition, a new production of Gounod's "Faust" will be staged at the Scala, conducted by Daniele Rustioni and inszeniert by Johannes Erath. A new production of "Pelléas et Mélisande" will also be directed by Romeo Castellucci and conducted by Maxime Pascal.
Ortombina aims to develop new singers alongside established stars like Anna Netrebko and Elīna Garanča. Alexander Soddy and Simone Young will alternate at the podium for the completion of the "Ring" begun by Dominique Meyer.
The Italian government has introduced a legal retirement age for cultural leadership positions, including the Scala. In 2026, Myung-Whun Chung will become the new Music Director of the Scala, starting with "Otello". Chung will also conduct "Carmen" at the Scala in June 2026.
Vasily Barkharov will direct "Lady Macbeth of Mzensk". The new season promises an exciting blend of classic and contemporary operas, ensuring that the Scala continues to be a beacon of opera excellence.
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