The decision comes as La Scala aims to strike a balance between encouraging a broader demographic—including younger patrons—while preserving the elegance that the venue is renowned for. “In order not to exclude anyone, it is necessary to establish some minimum rules,” explained Paolo Besana, a spokesman for the opera house, noting that such dressing guidelines are printed on tickets and displayed prominently.
While many contemporary theaters have adopted more relaxed dress codes, La Scala's stance reflects a desire to uphold the occasion's significance. John Allison, editor of Opera With Opera News, asserts that going to the opera is an occasion for many. He remarked that while he personally views jeans as acceptable, the experience of attending the opera should embody a sense of occasion.
However, not everyone agrees with the enforcement of strict dress norms. Critics like Andrew Mellor suggest that the focus should be on the performance rather than what attendees are wearing, stating, “The only clothes that matter in any opera house or theater are the ones on the stage.”
In navigating this sartorial dilemma, La Scala's decision embodies a broader conversation in the arts community about tradition versus modernity, ultimately seeking to ensure that a night at the opera feels special and dignified, without alienating potential new audiences.
While many contemporary theaters have adopted more relaxed dress codes, La Scala's stance reflects a desire to uphold the occasion's significance. John Allison, editor of Opera With Opera News, asserts that going to the opera is an occasion for many. He remarked that while he personally views jeans as acceptable, the experience of attending the opera should embody a sense of occasion.
However, not everyone agrees with the enforcement of strict dress norms. Critics like Andrew Mellor suggest that the focus should be on the performance rather than what attendees are wearing, stating, “The only clothes that matter in any opera house or theater are the ones on the stage.”
In navigating this sartorial dilemma, La Scala's decision embodies a broader conversation in the arts community about tradition versus modernity, ultimately seeking to ensure that a night at the opera feels special and dignified, without alienating potential new audiences.
