🎭 La Scala: guide to the 2023-2024 season

Milan is not only the capital of world fashion, but also one of the main opera centers on the planet. In 2023, the famous La Scala theater opened its doors on December 7, and visitors will be able to enjoy productions until November 10, 2024. We have collected up-to-date information about the performances, artists and repertoire of the monument of Italian art.

What is known about the premiere? 

By the way, did you know that La Scala only calls the debut appearance of performers on stage a premiere? Usually the first appearance gathers around many stars, experts and representatives of the elite. But all repetitions, even if Peru has not been staged in the theater before, are considered replicas and are not included as a separate line in the schedule.

The play “Don Carlos” by Giuseppe Verdi received the right to open the new season in Milan. In addition, the premiere on December 7 became a double holiday in the country. On this day, Italian opera was included in the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage and earned recognition not only within one state, but also at the international level. Previously, several local phenomena, including the Mediterranean diet, Neapolitan pizza technology and truffle hunting, had already received this honor.

What story will the audience see on stage? 

The production is based on Friedrich Schiller's play about the conflict between the Spanish King Philip II and his son Don Carlos. What caused the quarrel? It's simple: men were in love with Elizabeth of Valois and dreamed of marrying her. At the same time, the story takes place during a period when a Catholic ruler oppresses the medieval Netherlands.

At the same time, the main process of organizing the performance was entrusted to the director Luis Pascual, who is known for presenting the results of his work to the audience of European theaters and even the Salzburg festival, which is considered one of the most famous in the world. 

Giuseppe Verdi wrote “Don Carlos” in 1884 specifically for La Scala, and contemporaries consider this work to be the crowning achievement of the author’s brilliant career. Moreover, this is the master's longest opera, in the performance of which more artists are involved than in other performances.

Who plays the main roles?  

The best singers of our time received the right to open the season in the Italian theater. The image of Elizabeth Valois is embodied by the famous opera diva Anna Netrebko. Her signature timbre sounds so soft and velvety that it will not leave any viewer indifferent. The culmination of the performance is the part “Tu che le vanità”, which explodes the consciousness and touches the deepest feelings. We won’t be lying if we say that the powerful performance and teamwork make an indelible impression even on newcomers to the world of opera. Anna Netrebko is a great master of embodiment of the image. If necessary, she can easily tame her soprano to convey the emotional state of Elizabeth, who in one of the episodes indulges in memories of her youth.

Latvian artist Elina Garanča appeared in the image of Princess Eboli. She does not get lost against the background of Anna Netrebko, but becomes a harmonious complement to her heroine. With the help of a mezzo-soprano, the artist conveys not only the necessary notes, but also recognizable motifs of Spanish flamenco. But in the second act, all viewers will be rewarded in the form of a trio with Francesco Meli and Luca Salsi. Another masterpiece of the director’s idea is Elina’s performance of “Trema per te, falso figluolo,” which requires special use of high notes, tenderness and sensuality. 

Rodrigo's party fell on the shoulders of Luca Salsi. The baritone reveals on stage all the meanings that Giuseppe Verdi intended for this character. The Italian master is distinguished by his velvety voice and high-quality legato, which help him get used to the image of a conspirator and militant activist. 

The role of Don Carlos went to Francesco Meli. The director made this choice not by chance. The tenor for which Meli is famous is ideal for the young prince. Thanks to his talent, he skillfully conveys all the hero’s vices, as well as his love for Elizabeth of Valois. Undoubtedly, every holder of the coveted ticket awaits the performance of “Sarò tuo salvator” with pure high notes. Believe me, the singer's tenor literally lifts the audience to its feet. 

But the King of Spain is played by Michele Pertusi. The experienced bass is the ideal candidate for this role, because his talent, skill and voice accurately convey all the nuances of Philip II.

The premiere was not complete without the Asian opera school. South Korean bass Chungmin Park performed the role of the Grand Inquisitor. 

Who worked on the sets and costumes for the premiere? 

The images of the characters were created by costume designer Franka Squarciapino, who is known for her collaborations with A-list stars. The author tried to pay close attention to all historical features, and even the black color in her creations symbolizes not mourning and despondency, but luxury and depth. 

Set designer Daniel Bianco began designing the sets. He designed a huge tower framed with grids and panels that look like alabaster. In addition, the building itself contains many architectural details from the medieval era. But on both sides of the building there is a choir, which makes the overall visual concept even more interesting. 

Repertoire for the current season 

Didn't make it to the debut evening? There is no reason to be upset, because the theater has announced a schedule of performances until November 2024, which can be found here. Choose an opera and buy a ticket so you don't miss the chance to touch history.

• Don Carlos (December 10, 2023 – January 2, 2024);
• Medea (January 14 – 28, 2024);
• Simon Boccanegra (1 – 24 February 2024);
• Abduction from the Seraglio (February 25 – March 10, 2024);
• William Tell (March 20 – April 10, 2024);
• Swallow (4 – 20 April 2024);
• Country Honor / Pagliacci (April 16 – May 5, 2024);
• Don Pasquale (May 11 – June 4, 2024);
• Werther (June 10 – July 2, 2024);
• Turandot (June 25 – July 15, 2024);
• Straw Hat (September 4 – 18, 2024);
• Orontea (September 26 – October 5, 2024);
• Der Rosenkavalier (12 – 29 October 2024);
• Das Rheingold (Ring of the Nibelungs) (28 October – 10 November 2024). 

What else to do in Italy? 

Have you decided to stay on the Apennine Peninsula for a few days and are looking for interesting leisure options? We offer several ideas. 

We have compiled a detailed guide to Milan and talked about every attraction worthy of attention. By the way, there you will also find information about where the original fresco “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci was preserved.

Don't know what kind of transport to get around in Italy? Read our text to find out more about everything and not waste time. But general life hacks that you need to know before traveling to Rome, Milan, Florence and other famous cities have been collected here.

By the way, if you want to organize theater tourism, we have compiled a list of famous theaters.

How to get to Italy? 

Are you making plans to travel to a sunny southern country, but just can’t decide to implement them? Trip.com specialists are ready to take charge of organizing a trip to the birthplace of the Renaissance. Just imagine: no rush, no fussy search for a hotel or plane tickets. Real travel industry experts will offer the best available options and save your nerves and money.

What to do in your free time? Look for top locations for photos, book tables in establishments and mark places for walking on the map!