Gran Teatre del Liceu opens season with anti-war ‘Aida’

The Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona has inaugurated its 2026/2027 season with a production of Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘Aida’. The production features stage direction by Shirin Neshat, who presents an anti-war interpretation of the opera that focuses on oppressed individuals and the human cost of conflict rather than a traditional celebration of war.

The season opening marks the return of Russian-Austrian soprano Anna Netrebko to the Liceu after five years. Her appearance was met with protests outside the theater by a group of demonstrators, primarily Ukrainians, who voiced opposition to her perceived ties to Vladimir Putin.

Additionally, the event coincided with a leadership change at the theater, as Helena Guardans was appointed as the first female president of the Gran Teatre del Liceu Foundation, succeeding Salvador Alemany. The premiere was attended by various political figures, including the President of the Generalitat, Salvador Illa.