Met Opera GM Cancels Verdi Production to Save $1 Million; Spanish Director Says Decision Was 'Cruel and Disappointing'

According to AP, the manager for Spanish director Calixto Bieito says the Metropolitan Opera's decision to cancel his production of Verdi's "La Forza del Destino" is "cruel and disappointing."

Met General Manager Peter Gelb claims that he cancelled the production to save about $1 in funds for the 2016-17 season. The Verdi production was a co-production with the English National Opera, which made its premiere in London in November 2015.

Bieito has declined comment. Susanne Herrnleben said she "found the decision cruel and disappointing because he has done his best to meet the expectations of an American debut. The production was liked by both public and press in London, and Mr. Gelb, the co-producer, was full of praise as well."

Photo Credit: AP Photo/Mary Altaffer