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Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Politicians slam Berlin opera for canceling Idomeneo
Reuters.com: "German politicians condemned on Tuesday a decision by a Berlin opera house to cancel performances of Mozart's 'Idomeneo' over concerns they could enrage Muslims and pose a security risk."
I wish theater had this kind of effect on American Society. What is so interesting to me was that the Politicians WANTED the Opera to do the show...no matter who it was offending. They were defending the right to free expression while the Opera was terrified. I agree, however, that it was a good idea to change the season...especially if there had already been threats if it were put on. The Executive Director is a smart woman for adhering to threats and knowing when theater can be interpreted as commentary or as offensive.
I wish theater had this kind of effect on American Society. What is so interesting to me was that the Politicians WANTED the Opera to do the show...no matter who it was offending. They were defending the right to free expression while the Opera was terrified. I agree, however, that it was a good idea to change the season...especially if there had already been threats if it were put on. The Executive Director is a smart woman for adhering to threats and knowing when theater can be interpreted as commentary or as offensive.
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