La Scala confirms its next boss

The board of La Scala Milan has, as predicted, named Dominique Meyer of the Vienna State Opera as its next sovrintendente, starting at the beginning of 2020.

The present chief, Alexander Pereira, whose contract has not been renewed, will be allowed an extraordinarily long 18-month overlap, staying at the theatre until June 2021.

Meyer, who has been ousted in Vienna in an underhand political coup, said:

‘It is a great honour and the greatest possible pleasure to be able to work for the Teatro alla Scala. For many years I have felt connected to this house, which I love and admire. After wonderful years in Vienna, Paris and Lausanne, I am overjoyed to be able to start a new adventure in Milan – Italy has always held a special place in my heart!

‘I already know many people at La Scala and look forward to meeting the rest of the Scala family and the Milanese opera lovers soon. I will do everything it takes to start shaping the artistic future of this great opera house efficiently, smoothly and with respect for the house and Alexander Pereira.

Dominique Meyer