Mariotti Replaces Spinosi as La Scala's BARBER OF SEVILLE Director

Jean-Christophe Spinosi, who was to direct Rossini's THE BARBER OF SEVILLE at Milan's La Scala, has been replaced by Michele Mariotti, the New York Times reports.  La Scala stated on its website, "Due to the impossibility of maintaining a serene and constructive work relationship, Jean-Christophe Spinosi has decided by mutual agreement with the Teatro alla Scala management to withdraw from the current production."

The premiere of the production, which was to take place on July 9, has been cancelled due to a strike by the opera's performing artists, who are protesting a hiring freeze and reduction of bonuses created by a new government plan. 

For more information about the production, visit www.teatroallascala.org.