Venice opera house staff to strike over hiring of Meloni-linked conductor

Staff at Venice's La Fenice opera house are set to strike over the controversial appointment of conductor Beatrice Venezi, who is linked to Giorgia Meloni's government. Musicians and staff argue that Venezi lacks the necessary experience for the role and was chosen due to her political connections rather than merit. This strike, scheduled for October 17, coincides with the opening of Alban Berg's Wozzeck, marking a significant moment in the opera house's season. The situation highlights ongoing tensions in the arts community regarding political influence in cultural institutions.