La Fenice opera house cuts ties with music director linked to Giorgia Meloni
AP News • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Venice’s La Fenice opera house has canceled its collaboration with incoming music director Beatrice Venezi following months of protests from musicians over her appointment.
- General manager Nicola Colabianchi cited Venezi’s “repeated and serious public statements” that were deemed offensive and harmful to the theater and its orchestra as the reason for the decision.
- Venezi had accused the theater of nepotism in an interview, sparking backlash from unions and staff who criticized her lack of experience and transparency in the hiring process.
- The decision was welcomed by unions and the audience, with protests including strikes and marches highlighting concerns over political interference in artistic appointments.
- Venezi, 36, has ties to Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and was previously appointed as an adviser to the culture minister; she has conducted internationally and led youth orchestras.
