Pro-Putin Singer Netrebko Returns to the Stage of the London Royal Opera.

The London Royal Opera is bringing back Russian opera singer Anna Netrebko to its stage after a six-year hiatus. She will open the new 2025-2026 season with a production of 'Tosca' by Giacomo Puccini. This performance will also mark the debut of the theater's new musical director, Jakub Hrůša. In addition to 'Tosca', Netrebko will also appear in a new production by Oliver Mears and four performances of 'Turandot' by Puccini. A solo concert by the singer is also scheduled for June 24, 2026.

What is known about Netrebko?

Anna Netrebko, who holds the title of People's Artist of Russia, publicly supports Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. In January 2023, she was placed on Ukraine's sanctions list. The cancellation of her performances in Europe in January 2022 was related to entry restrictions. Additionally, the Metropolitan Opera in New York also canceled her performances due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and a German solo concert was canceled due to her pro-Russian views. Netrebko has also donated money to the opera theater in Donetsk, which was owned by Russia due to the invasion.Thus, Anna Netrebko's return to the stage of the London Royal Opera is significant both politically and artistically. Despite her talent and popularity among opera fans, her support for Russian dictator Putin and pro-Russian views have led to controversy and cancellations of performances in various countries around the world.