The Italian government on Monday
demanded answers from the famed La Scala opera house in Milan
after suspicions of conflict of interest surrounding its
incoming superintendent, Alexander Pereira.
Culture Minister Dario Franceschini called on the
foundation behind La Scala to provide a report on allegations
that Pereira, the Salzburg Festival's current director, was
selling seven of its productions to La Scala, where Pereira is
set to take over in October.
Word of the government's involvement came from Milan Mayor
Giuliano Pisapia, who is also chairman on the board of directors
at La Scala, after leaving a board meeting.
Pereira has denied any wrongdoing, and says it was in La
Scala's best interest to run productions taken from "the best of
the Festival".
In an interview with Italian daily La Repubblica, he said
the seven shows were to be spread out over the next several
years, and not performed in the same season as some outlets had
reported.
"The four titles from Salzburg that will be divided over
the 2015 and 2016 seasons cost Salzburg 4,450,000 euros, and the
Milanese theatre will get them at €690,000 each - a very good
price.
"I could sell my productions to other theatres for more
money. La Scala has got a bargain".
Pisapia said Pereira has been asked back up his statements
with documentation for the culture ministry.
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