While Switzerland cancels a concert featuring Russian opera singer Anna Netrebko, Germany is bringing her back to the stage. The artist will participate in one of the eight premieres of the upcoming season at the German State Opera in Berlin.
This was announced by the future director of the State Opera, Elisabeth Sobotka, and the new chief conductor, Christian Thielemann , during the presentation of their first joint season. A grand opening with drums and trumpets.
There were protests against the Russian singer outside the opera house in September 2023 due to her alleged closeness to Vladimir Putin when Netrebko performed Verdi's "Macbeth" here. In the upcoming season, she will sing the first premiere, specifically the role of Abigaille in Verdi's "Nabucco" (October 2, 2024). Additionally, she will appear with her husband, Yusif Eyvazov, in Verdi's "Il Trovatore" (starting May 15, 2025).
Do the new opera directors anticipate demonstrations outside the house again? Elisabeth Sobotka: "Of course, I hope there are no protests because I really don't think they are justified."
Among other things, Netrebko was accused of not immediately taking a clear stance during the attack on Ukraine. Sobotka added: "She made a big mistake, but she distanced herself and really has nothing more to do with Russia."
