Royal Ballet and Opera Cancels Tel Aviv Performance Amid Gaza Conflict Controversy

The Royal Ballet and Opera, a prominent British arts institution, has canceled a planned performance in Tel Aviv next year. This decision followed an open letter signed by nearly 200 staff members who criticized the company's stance on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The company had been scheduled to collaborate with the Israeli Opera to stage "Tosca."

The company's chief executive announced the cancellation to staff, citing the open letter and the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. The decision was made before the board received the letter, with the company citing concerns about the deteriorating humanitarian crisis and the associated risks to the safety of its members. The production of "Tosca" will premiere in London in September.

Tensions within the company had been escalating due to the war in Gaza. A recent incident involved a dancer displaying a Palestinian flag during a curtain call, which led to a scuffle. The open letter criticized the company's approach, particularly its continued collaboration with the Israeli Opera, which the letter claimed had offered free tickets to Israeli soldiers.

The Royal Ballet and Opera's chief executive acknowledged and respected the diverse views on the war. However, the letter's signees expressed strong disagreement, criticizing the company's perceived silence on the situation in Gaza compared to its support for Ukraine. They questioned the double standard and accused the company of selectively supporting political causes. The company's leadership stated that their support for Ukraine aligned with a global consensus, and their stance has changed to reflect their purpose and values.