The British Royal Ballet and Opera have decided to cancel their planned 2026 production of “Tosca” at the Israeli Opera in Tel Aviv. This choice comes after internal protests regarding the organization’s views on the situation in Gaza, as reported by the Guardian on Monday.
The decision follows an open letter signed by 182 employees, which includes performers and musicians. This letter criticizes the organization’s relations with Israel amid the current conflict and urges institutions to avoid supporting systems that enable what they describe as “crimes against humanity.”
Interestingly, the letter does not address the significant acts of violence committed by Hamas against civilians in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, nor does it mention the hostages still being held by the terrorists in Gaza.
RBO CEO Alex Beard confirmed the cancellation in an internal communication, acknowledging the concerns raised by staff. He stated, “We have made the decision that a new production of Tosca will not go to Israel.”
Notably, the Israeli Opera’s website does not include any references to the Royal Opera House, the primary venue for the Royal Ballet and Opera, which is located in Covent Garden, London.
The signers of the letter have accused Israel of perpetrating ongoing genocide in Gaza. They also pointed out that the Tel Aviv venues offer complimentary tickets to Israeli Defence Force soldiers.
The letter suggests that by allowing its production to be associated with these political issues, the RBO is, in effect, making a strong political statement regarding civilian casualties.
It’s worth noting that Israel mandates military service for all citizens over 18, with some exceptions.
Additionally, the letter shows support for cast members from London’s Royal Opera House who displayed the PLO flag during the final bow of Giuseppe Verdi’s “Il Trovatore” on July 19.
