Controversy Strikes as Italy Cancels Russian Conductor's Concert
A classical concert in Italy, featuring Russian conductor Valery Gergiev, was canceled following backlash due to his links to President Putin. Scheduled at the Reggia di Caserta, leaders and activists pushed for cancellation amidst heightened tensions after the Ukraine invasion. Italian authorities heeded the calls.
- Country:
- Italy
An Italian classical concert slated for Sunday was called off due to backlash over inviting top Russian conductor Valery Gergiev. Known for his ties to President Putin, Gergiev, who was supposed to lead an Italian orchestra at the Reggia di Caserta palace, faced criticism post the Ukraine invasion.
Despite no official reasons given, the performance faced condemnation from politicians and global activists, urging its cancellation. Gergiev was unavailable for comment, and the festival, organized by the Campania region, saw regional leader Vincenzo De Luca defending artists' independence from their government's actions.
Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli warned that the event could serve as a propaganda tool for Russia. Comparisons were drawn with another festival where Israeli conductor Daniel Oren featured, indicating efforts at open communication despite differing views.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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