The Slow Newscast The diva and the dictator: opera at war
Sep 2, 2025
The podcast dives into the controversial life of opera star Anna Netrebko, whose past support for Putin has led to widespread boycotts, yet she's set to perform at the Royal Opera House. Tensions arise as protests and open letters from fellow artists challenge her return. The discussion reflects on the complex ties between art and politics, showcasing the struggles of Russian artists and the efforts of Ukrainian orchestras to preserve cultural identity amidst conflict. Anecdotes of vibrant friendships and stage memories add a rich layer to the artistic narrative.
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Flag Protest At Curtain Call
- A dancer unfurled a Palestine flag during a Royal Opera House curtain call and resisted security trying to remove it.
- Over 200 Royal Ballet and Opera members later signed a letter criticising the Opera House's stance on Gaza and it pulled 2026 Israel performances.
Casting Sparks Geopolitical Tensions
- The Royal Opera House cast Anna Netrebko in Tosca despite her past public support for Vladimir Putin and a wider boycott.
- That choice highlights how major theatres face fraught trade-offs between artistic prestige and political ethics.
Long Friendship With Netrebko
- Tenor Joseph Kaleja recounts a long personal friendship and stage chemistry with Anna Netrebko spanning 20 years.
- He sketches her as joyous, gregarious and born with a charismatic stage presence.