La Scala launches digital platform

Milan’s Teatro Alla Scala will this month launch its new streaming platform, LaScala.tv. The service will offer recorded versions of the theatre’s operas, ballets and concerts as well as its performances for children both live and on demand.

Currently open for registration, LaScala.tv will present its first live streamed performance, Verdi’s I Vespri siciliani, on 14 February, with on-demand content available from 9 February. The platform’s inaugural livestream will be conducted by Danish National Symphony Orchestra principal conductor Fabio Luisi and directed by Hugo de Ana.

Performances will be recorded and livestreamed using the nine cameras installed in the theatre during the months of the pandemic. During the intervals, Italian actor and director Mario Acampa will take viewers behind the scenes at the theatre.

All live streams will have subtitles in five languages - English, French, German, Spanish and Italian – part of La Scala’s intention to reach an international audience. The platform will also focus on children and schools with on-demand titles and documentaries suitable for children. The platform’s educational content will be distibuted in collaboration with Milan-based charitable foundation, Fondazione Cariplo.

The platform launch is part of La Scala’s broad modernisation project. Since 2020, the Theatre has made improvements to the acoustics of the boxes, modernised the ticketing and backstage systems and updated the theatre programmes and magazine. It has also reduced energy consumption by 25%. Next season will see the launch of the theatre’s new website, app and digital magazine.