Inquiry begins in La Scala strikes

The inquiry commission of the Italian senate begins hearings today about problems at La Scala, worried that a series of strikes there is damaging the reputation of one of opera’s most famous theaters.

Striking employees, from musicians to stage crew, shut down Friday night’s opening of the ballet “Europa.” It was the latest in a string of canceled performances at the Milan theater, where workers have pledged to strike during each premiere.

The problems stem from a decision by La Scala’s board of directors to dismiss superintendent Carlo Fontana, who had run the operation since 1990 but had a rift with conductor Riccardo Muti. The opera house’s workers union accuses Muti of undermining the superintendent’s control.