On the 25th, the Italian government announced an emergency measure to ban restaurants from operating after 6 pm in response to the spread of the new coronavirus infection again. As a result, the halls and theaters were closed by November 24th.
In response to this government response, conductor Riccardo Muti has published a letter calling for the reopening of the theater. The letter was released on the 26th and is addressed to Prime Minister Conté. The full text is as follows.
Dear President Conte,
While I understand your difficult responsibilities in this long and tragic period for our country, and with the urgent need to safeguard the health of our fellow citizens, I am impelled to make a heartfelt appeal.
Closing concert halls and theatres is a grave decision. The impoverishment of the mind and spirit is dangerous and also harms physical health. To define theatrical and musical activity, as I have heard some government representatives say, as “superfluous” is an expression of ignorance, and shows a lack of culture and sensitivity.
Such a decision does not take into account the sacrifice and suffering of thousands of artists and workers from all sectors of the performing arts who are insulted by this decision and are left fearful for their futures.
I ask you, confident that I’m conveying the thoughts not only of the artists but also of much of the public, to give life back to theatres and musical activities so they can provide the spiritual sustenance without which society is becoming more and more brutalized.
The theatres are governed by people who are well aware of the anti-Covid regulations and the safety measures indicated, and rules have always been meticulously respected.
I hope that you will listen to this appeal,
With warm regards,
Photo：riccardomuti.com / Martin Kubik
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