Prima delle Prime

“Prima delle Prime” is a cycle of talks that La Scala offers to the public as an invitation and preparation to the shows on stage. They take place a few days before the start of every (opera and ballet) show, in the “Arturo Toscanini” foyer. They start at 6 pm, with free entrance while seats last.

The event features knowledgeable experts who discuss the work ready to be staged, which provides a great opportunity to learn more about less-known works and to examine in detail the most famous ones. The musical critic Angelo Foletto coordinates the event, which is illustrated by audio recordings while two actors recite excerpts of the libretto.

“Prima delle Prime” has been organised and made possible by the “Amici della Scala” (“La Scala's Friends”), a not-for-profit association that supports various side-activities of the Teatro alla Scala. “Prima delle Prime” is also supported by Mediolanum Channel, a cultural network broadcasting high-quality television programmes about the operas performed at La Scala.

The La Scala Ballet also organises conferences that introduce the public to the ballets put on at La Scala, which also fall under the “Prima delle Prime”. Held in the foyer, they are enriched by video screenings.

Please note that these events are held in Italian.