La Scala's 'Don Carlo' Premiere Marred by Anti-Fascist Protests

Italian opera's global recognition celebrated amid controversy over far-right politician's presence.

La Scala's season premiere of Verdi’s 'Don Carlo' celebrated Italian opera's recent recognition as a global cultural treasure by UNESCO.
The event was marked by controversy as Senate Speaker Ignazio La Russa, a far-right politician accused of not condemning Italy's fascist past, was given the institutional seat of honor.
Protests against La Russa's presence were voiced by La Scala's unions and audience members, with cries of 'Long live anti-fascist Italy' heard in the theater.
The opera 'Don Carlo' addresses themes of power and oppression, reflecting current global issues.
The premiere also saw silent protests against violence towards women, with some attendees wearing red shoes and jangling keys.