‘Exhausted’ Anna Netrebko cancels opera performances in Madrid

The Russian star soprano Anna Netrebko has cancelled several performances at Madrid’s Teatro Real opera house due to “severe physical exhaustion.”.

Following her performance last Tuesday, the 54-year-old felt unwell due to severe physical exhaustion and vocal strain, the opera house announced on Friday, citing the artist’s agent.

The “extreme weather conditions” in Madrid, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius, had further exacerbated the soprano’s discomfort, the statement said. A doctor has prescribed complete physical and vocal rest for the coming weeks.

The singer, who is originally from Russia, also holds Austrian citizenship. In 2022, she came under criticism for her alleged closeness to President Vladimir Putin, following the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine. Her management has consistently pointed out that Netrebko has spoken out against the war.

The Teatro Real said the Italian singer Eleonora Buratto will take over Netrebko’s leading soprano role as Leonora in Giuseppe Verdi’s opera “Il Trovatore” (The Troubadour) for the four performances scheduled in July.