The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) in Oman has made the decision to exclude an Israeli mezzo, Hagar Sharvit, from participating in an upcoming production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream composed by Benjamin Britten. This move has been made due to concerns for her safety.
ROHM’s collaboration with Teatro Carlo Felice di Genova is set to showcase this Shakespearean opera next month. However, the decision to exclude Sharvit has caused controversy and raised questions about artistic freedom.
The opera house recently announced the cancellation of all vocal solo concerts for the 2023-24 season. The reason given for this decision was Israel’s actions in Gaza. The statement released by ROHM read, „In view of the current events in the region, the Royal Opera Muscat would like to announce the cancellation of all vocal solo concerts for its artistic season for the year 2023-24.” It was also mentioned that a portion of the proceeds from the classical programme would be dedicated to Palestine in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
This is not the first time ROHM has taken a stance in solidarity with Palestine. In October, during Israel’s war on Gaza following the Al-Aqsa Flood resistance operation, the Omani Women’s Day concert was canceled and other events were suspended as a show of support for Palestinians.
While the concern for Sharvit’s safety is important, the decision to exclude her from the production raises questions about the impact on artistic collaboration and the principles of inclusivity and freedom of expression. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges faced by artists who find themselves caught in the midst of political conflicts.
FAQ:
1. Why was Hagar Sharvit excluded from the Royal Opera House Muscat’s production?
Hagar Sharvit, an Israeli mezzo, was excluded from the production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream due to concerns for her safety.
2. What was the reason for the cancellation of all vocal solo concerts at ROHM for the 2023-24 season?
The reason given for canceling the vocal solo concerts was Israel’s actions in Gaza. ROHM expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people by canceling these concerts and donating a portion of the proceeds from the classical programme to Palestine.
3. Has ROHM shown solidarity with Palestine before?
Yes, ROHM has previously shown solidarity with Palestine. During Israel’s war on Gaza, the Omani Women’s Day concert was canceled and other events were suspended in support of Palestinians.
4. What concerns does the exclusion of Hagar Sharvit raise?
The decision to exclude Hagar Sharvit raises concerns regarding artistic collaboration, as well as the principles of inclusivity and freedom of expression. It highlights the challenges faced by artists who find themselves caught in the midst of political conflicts.
Definitions:
1. Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) – Olivier-inspired opera house located in Oman, known for hosting various cultural performances and events.
2. A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Shakespearean opera composed by Benjamin Britten, which will be showcased in collaboration with Teatro Carlo Felice di Genova at ROHM.
Related Links:
– Teatro Carlo Felice di Genova: Official website of Teatro Carlo Felice di Genova, collaborating with ROHM for the production.
– ROHM Official Website: Official website of the Royal Opera House Muscat, where more information about their events and performances can be found.
The source of the article is from the blog kunsthuisoaleer.nl