Milan's La Scala Theater: Enchantment, Opera, and Secrets with Laura Benitti

Built in 1778, La Scala is one of the world's most famous opera houses, built according to the designs of the neoclassical architect Giuseppe Piermarini. This conversation will take participants through the history of the Theatre, starting from its origins, to the history of the patrons and the golden times of the nineteenth century with great composers such as Vincenzo Bellini, Gaetano Donizetti, Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini. It’s a wonderful conversation for opera-goers and cultural enthusiasts alike, set to awaken your musical imagination beyond its normal realms.

After discussing La Scala’s origins and historical evolution, we will look at its experience in World War Two when it was able to rise up again after the terrible bombings, inaugurating a new golden season. We will learn about all the most famous interpreters of the twentieth century, like Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti, José Carreras, Franco Zeffirelli, and Riccardo Chailly. Finally, we will talk about what La Scala means for Milan, Italy, and the world today as we close on a discussion about its future.

Led by an expert on art history, Laura Benitti, this interactive seminar will be dedicated to La Scala Theater. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with increased knowledge about the 250-year-old history of this musical space, along with a few of its secrets.

Laura was born in Turin, where she studied history of art, but moved to Milan in 2002. Since her graduation, she has accumulated a long experience as an art consultant and registrar in a few museums in Turin, as well as expertise as a local Milan guide. She loves to be both an experienced and friendly local ambassador of Milan and Como area for her travelers.

This conversation is suitable for all ages

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.