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Funding Cuts Threaten UK Opera, Sparks Political Debate

4/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Oliver Mears, director of opera at Covent Garden, says funding cuts shrink national opera scene and touring by Glyndebourne and English National Opera.
He emphasized the Royal Opera's commitment to nurturing emerging composers despite dwindling opportunities.
Mears faced backlash for reacting to a political protest, while colleagues supported the protester.
He defended political expressions in opera, noting the complexities of casting Anna Netrebko amid scrutiny over past associations with Russia.

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Story summary

Oliver Mears, director of opera at Covent Garden, says funding cuts shrink national opera scene and touring by Glyndebourne and English National Opera.
He emphasized the Royal Opera's commitment to nurturing emerging composers despite dwindling opportunities.
Mears faced backlash for reacting to a political protest, while colleagues supported the protester.
He defended political expressions in opera, noting the complexities of casting Anna Netrebko amid scrutiny over past associations with Russia.