Homage to Maria Callas

Maria Callas, whose personal legend is for ever linked to the history of opera, died on 16 September 1977. On the occasion of the thirtieth anniversary of her death, La Scala organises various events to pay tribute to the great soprano. Since 14 September the exhibitions "Stage Costumes" and "Backstage Images" are on view in the Theatre Museum and at the "Arturo Toscanini" Boxes Foyer.

The first exhibition (which runs until 27 August 2008) displays the original costumes worn by Callas during her performances at the Milanese opera house, which today are kept in the historical archives of the theatre. The second exhibition (open until 30 November 2007) features offstage photographs of Maria Callas, most of them never shown previously.

On Sunday 16 September 2007, on the exact day of the anniversary, La Scala opened its auditorium to the public for the world premiere of Philippe Kohly's film "Callas". The three screenings on that day, at 12 noon, 3 pm and 9 pm, were attended by 6,000 members of the audience who filled the entire theatre.

The anniversary is also celebrated with an illustrated book published by Allemandi, "Maria Callas - The Scala Years". The volume documents the twelve unforgettable seasons that changed the way opera presents itself as a high synthesis of theatre and music to today's sensitiveness.

 

Programme

"Stage Costumes"
Theatre Museum
14 September 2007 - 27 August 2008

"Backstage Images"
"A. Toscanini" Boxes Foyer
14 September - 30 November 2007

"Callas Assoluta"
World Premiere of Philippe Kohly's Video Documentary
Teatro alla Scala
16 September 2007

 

 

Major Partner

 

With the collaboration of