Teatro alla Scala faces strike threat ahead of Faust premiere

Teatro alla Scala faces a potential strike on October 20, threatening the premiere of Gounod’s Faust, directed by Daniele Rustioni. Over 450 workers voted for a day-long strike to address concerns regarding purchasing power eroded by inflation, which reached 8.1% in 2022 and 5.7% in 2023. Unions, including Slc Cgil, are seeking a 15% increase in gross annual compensation for the 2027-2029 period to recover lost wages.

Separately, Romeo Castellucci is presenting a new production of Faust at the Teatro Argentina as part of the Romaeuropa Festival. This production focuses on an extreme scenic experience rather than a traditional narrative, exploring the character’s transition from the pursuit of knowledge to the importance of action.