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Teatro alla Scala was built from 1776 to 1778, following the destruction of the Regio Ducale Teatro (built 1717) that had formed part of Palazzo Reale in Piazza Duomo. Its construction was funded by the nobility of Milan, with the assent of Maria Teresa of Austria, who was empress of Austria and Duchess of Milan. The architect, Giuseppe Piermarini, designed a severe Neoclassical facade (which became a prototype for many other opera houses in Italy) and above all created an interior which from the start was exceptional as regards its acoustics. Its history, acoustics and the outstanding level of its performances have made La Scala Theatre one of the best known temples of lyric and classical music in the world. La Scala Theatre is home to the best opera singers and conductors such as Muti, Pavarotti, Carrera, Domingo, just to mention some. The Theatre will close for a three-year period, until 7 December 2004 due to necessary refurbishing works. For the first time since the second world war, the Theatre will suspend its activity and move, albeit temporarily, to a new venue, the Arcimboldi Theatre. If, on the one hand the magic of La Scala Theatre will be missed, on the other the new Arcimboldi Theatre will offer unprecedented opportunities in terms of set-designing, acoustics and comfort. The historic Teatro alla Scala is in, strangely enough, Piazza Scala and can be reached by metro, being very central, the duomo stop on metro lines 1 and 3. 7th December is the traditional date for the opening of the Scala season, because it is the day dedicated to Sant'Ambrogio, patron saint of the Milan. Up until 7th December 2004, all performances are held at the modern Teatro degli Arcimboldi, Via dell'Innovazione, Bicocca district, in the northern suburbs. After 7th December, performances will be held in both theatres. The Teatro degli Arcimboldi can be reached by shuttle bus from Piazza Duomo, by metro line 1 to the Precotto stop and then a shuttle bus to Bicocca, or bus 44. Of course there is always the taxi. Remember Milanese taxi drivers always complain about how little they earn so even if you do speak Italian you may be advised to play the foreigner card. The adjoining Museo Teatrale alla Scala boasts such curiosities as Verdi's death mask. |