La Scala strike threatens opening night of Gounod’s Faust

Workers at the Milan opera house have approved a full-day strike on 20 October, seeking a 15% increase in gross annual pay as negotiations continue over a new contract.

The opening night of La Scala’s new production of Gounod’s Faust is at risk after workers voted overwhelmingly to strike on 20 October.

According to ANSA, the assembly called by the Cgil, Cisl, Uil and Fials unions approved industrial action covering all shifts, with only one vote against and four abstentions among more than 450 participants. Further strikes could follow.

The dispute concerns the renewal of the theatre’s employment contract for 2027–2029. The four unions are seeking a 15% increase in gross annual pay, arguing that previous adjustments have failed to compensate for inflation and the rising cost of living.

Strike remains in place after initial talks

A meeting with La Scala superintendent Fortunato Ortombina on 13 October did not lead to the withdrawal of the strike, La Repubblica reported on 14 October.

The unions said Ortombina had received a mandate from the board to begin negotiations, but that management had not provided clear information about the financial resources available to support their demands. Another meeting is scheduled for 15 October, after which the unions will assess whether sufficient progress has been made.

New production, rather than season inauguration

Directed by Johannes Erath and conducted by Daniele Rustioni, Faust is scheduled to run from 20 October to 8 November. The opening cast includes Vittorio Grigolo in the title role, Marina Rebeka as Marguerite and Alex Esposito as Méphistophélès. The opera returns to La Scala’s stage for the first time since 2010.

The threatened performance is the opening night of this production, which belongs to the theatre’s 2025/26 season. La Scala’s 2026/27 season will open on 7 December with Verdi’s Otello.