Stage & backstage tours

Overview

Exploring the Stage & backstage tours of Teatro alla Scala in Milan, Italy, offers a rare glimpse into the heart of one of the world's most renowned opera houses. While direct access to the main stage and immediate backstage areas of the theatre itself is often restricted due to rehearsals or performances, tours typically provide an immersive experience through its historical halls, the magnificent auditorium viewed from the prestigious boxes, and the fascinating Museo Teatrale alla Scala.

Beyond the main theatre, a dedicated tour of the Ansaldo Workshops provides an unparalleled 'backstage' experience, revealing where the magic of set design, costume creation, and props fabrication comes to life. These workshops are crucial to every Teatro alla Scala production, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship that supports the on-stage spectacle.

History & Cultural Background

Teatro alla Scala stands on a site steeped in history, its foundations laid after the Royal Ducal Theatre was destroyed by fire in 1776. Empress Maria Theresa of Austria commissioned its construction, and the new theatre, designed by Giuseppe Piermarini, opened its doors on August 3, 1778, taking its name from the Church of Santa Maria alla Scala that once stood there.

From its inception, La Scala quickly established itself as a global epicentre of opera and ballet. It premiered works by Italian masters like Rossini, Verdi, and Puccini, and its stage has been graced by legends such as Arturo Toscanini and Maria Callas. The theatre faced significant damage from Allied bombing during World War II in 1943 but was remarkably rebuilt and reopened in 1946 with a memorable concert conducted by Toscanini, symbolizing Milan's resilience and dedication to the arts.

A major restoration between 2002 and 2004, led by architect Mario Botta, modernized the theatre while preserving its historical integrity. This period saw the backstage area significantly enlarged and the addition of features like the impressive fly tower and oval tower, visible from outside, housing rehearsal rooms and technical spaces.

What Makes It Special

What makes the Teatro alla Scala experience truly special is the profound connection it offers to the living history of opera. Viewing the magnificent horseshoe-shaped auditorium from a box, perhaps even the Royal Box, allows visitors to imagine centuries of performances and high society gatherings.

Beyond the gilded interiors, the theatre's backstage operations, particularly through the Ansaldo Workshops, reveal the incredible scale of artistry involved. These workshops are renowned as the largest of their kind for any theatre globally, where skilled artisans meticulously craft the elaborate sets, costumes, and props that bring productions to life. It's a unique opportunity to witness the 'Magnificent Factory' where traditional craftsmanship meets modern theatrical demands, showcasing the complex machinery and technical prowess behind every show.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

La Scala's history is rich with intriguing details. In its early days, the theatre was more than just an opera house; it was a vibrant social hub where box owners could decorate their private spaces, and even conduct business transactions during performances. The auditorium was originally lit by hundreds of oil lamps, with buckets of water strategically placed for fire safety, long before electric lighting arrived in 1883.

The Ansaldo Workshops themselves hold a legendary tale: when transferring the colossal staging for the opera 'Aida,' it required 30 lorries, leading to the expression 'to do an Aida' to describe a particularly demanding and large-scale project. Today, these workshops store an astounding 60,000 costumes from 280 productions and thousands of sets, a testament to the theatre's enduring artistic legacy. The sheer dedication of the artisans, who can wash up to 200 costumes in a single day, underscores the meticulous effort behind every grand performance.

Visitor Perspective

A typical visit to Teatro alla Scala includes access to the Museo Teatrale alla Scala, which houses a rich collection of instruments, costumes, and historical memorabilia, illuminating the theatre's past. From the museum, visitors can usually step into one of the third-level boxes for a breathtaking view of the main auditorium, provided there are no rehearsals or performances underway.

For a deeper dive into the production process, separate guided tours of the Ansaldo Workshops are available, offering a true 'backstage' perspective on set and costume creation. These tours provide unique insights into the artistry and scale of the theatre's operations that are rarely seen by the public. It is highly recommended to book tours in advance, as access to certain areas, especially the main theatre's stage, can be limited or subject to last-minute changes due to artistic demands. Some tours may have restrictions regarding photography or suitability for young children or those with walking difficulties.