Royal Ballet and Opera Cancel Tosca in Israel over Staff Backlash Against Israel’s Gaza War and Alleged Hypocrisy

The UK’s esteemed arts institution, The Royal Ballet and Opera (RBO), has announced the cancellation of its upcoming production of “Tosca” in Israel following internal staff opposition.

In a collective statement, 182 RBO employees expressed their refusal to perform in Israel due to ongoing conflicts, particularly the war in Gaza. The intended three-act opera collaboration with the Israeli Opera in Tel Aviv was scheduled for next year.

The signatories accused the RBO of supporting Israel’s government, currently engaged in alleged human rights violations in Gaza. Since October 2023, over 61,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, and this staff letter serves as a response to this ongoing crisis.

The controversy arose from an incident at a previous performance of “Il Trovatore,” where a dancer displayed a Palestinian flag during the curtain call. Footage showed a scuffle between the dancer and an individual trying to seize the flag.

The RBO initially condemned this action, deeming it inappropriate and against its commitment to political neutrality. However, the organization’s response was met with widespread criticism from staff members.

In their statement, RBO employees voiced support for the dancer who displayed the Palestinian flag, stating that the attempt to confiscate it represented hostility towards any visible solidarity with Palestine.

Staff demanded that the organization refrain from partnering with institutions that financially support a state involved in civilian killings.

In light of staff concerns about safety and ongoing conflicts, RBO CEO Alex Beard confirmed the production’s cancellation but emphasized that the decision was made prior to receiving the staff letter.

Artists for Palestine UK praised the RBO’s decision, noting it as a significant step forward in addressing global crises. Alarm over the situation in Gaza has escalated recently due to Israel’s blockade, causing widespread malnutrition and starvation among the Palestinian population.

As a result of these events, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK would recognize a Palestinian state if Israel fails to secure a ceasefire in Gaza by September. The RBO’s production of “Tosca” is still scheduled to premiere in London during this month.