Italy

Teatro alla Scala, Milan

One of the world’s oldest and grandest theatres, La Scala has become synonymous with opera in Italy, the birthplace of the artform. Designed by Giuseppe Piermarini in Neoclassical style, it first opened its doors in 1778 with Salieri’s L’Europa riconosciuta for its inaugural performance. Built at the behest of Empress Maria Theresa of Austria to replace Milan’s Royal Ducal Theatre destroyed by fire two years prior, La Scala became the home of opera seria, especially the music of Rossini. It hosted the world premieres of Bellini’s Norma (1831), Catalani’s La Wally (1892) and Puccini’s Madama Butterfly (1904).

Legendary Italian conductor Arturo Toscanini became artistic director in the early 20th century, cementing La Scala’s reputation for Verdi performance as well as bringing a new focus to the works of Wagner. Toscanini left a lasting legacy, with the 135-strong Teatro alla Scala Orchestra now considered one of the world’s best for in the genre. Claudio Abbado and Riccardo Muti have also taken up the baton, the latter leaving in 2005 – citing “staff hostility” – after 19 years as music director.

The building sustained severe damage in WWII bombings, and a major restoration effort ensued. Extensive renovations again took place in 2002 – 2004 to expand the backstage...