Riccardo Chailly recovering after health scare during Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk at La Scala

Riccardo Chailly recovering after health scare during Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk at La Scala

Interruption of the performance
The Teatro alla Scala in Milan suspended last night’s performance of Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk after conductor Riccardo Chailly became unwell during the evening, according to Italian media. The production was halted after the second interval, when Chailly did not return to the podium and was subsequently taken to a Milan cardiology centre.

Official update from La Scala
La Scala has now confirmed that Chailly’s condition has improved rapidly. In a message released by the theatre, the conductor said: “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the musicians and to everyone who has shown their support and affection at this time: I have been truly touched by the number of messages I have received. I would like to reassure everyone that I will be back on the podium very soon.”

What happened during the performance
Reports earlier in the day indicated that Chailly, 72, had appeared fatigued to musicians during the evening. The first interval reportedly lasted longer than scheduled amid concern about his condition. Despite this, he continued for nearly fifty minutes into the next part of the opera before the performance was stopped.

Given the complexity of Shostakovich’s score, and “out of respect for Maestro Chailly”, the theatre decided not to proceed with a substitution. An announcement was made on stage informing the audience that the performance would not continue.

Medical assistance and background
Emergency services arrived at the theatre to provide assistance before transporting the conductor to hospital. Chailly, who has a known cardiac condition, had previously withdrawn from engagements for medical reasons — including the Filarmonica della Scala tour earlier this year and the 2023 Lucerne Festival opening concert.

In his final season as Music Director of La Scala, Chailly remains closely associated with the theatre and will continue to lead the Lucerne Festival until 2028.