Calgary Opera removes singer Gabriel Sánchez Ortega after he displays Palestinian flag

Bass-baritone Gabriel Sánchez Ortega has been removed from his role in Giacomo Puccini’s opera Tosca after displaying a Palestinian flag during the curtain call following the production’s opening performance last Friday.

Calgary Opera, based in Alberta, Canada, confirmed the decision in a statement reported by Radio-Canada, describing the gesture as “unexpected and unauthorized” and stating that the individual political protest violated the company’s policy.

The institution also acknowledged that the incident may have affected audience members, cast members, technical staff, orchestra musicians and personnel at the Jubilee Auditorium in different ways. The company apologized for any discomfort or distress caused and confirmed that another performer would take over Sánchez Ortega’s role in the remaining performances.

Sánchez Ortega responded to the decision in a statement posted on his Instagram account, confirming that he had been excluded from upcoming performances of Tosca after displaying the Palestinian flag during the curtain call.

“I do not regret it,” the singer said.

He added that after leaving the theater, whether following a political performance or another kind of event, people must return home and reflect on themselves. He also described it as an honor to have portrayed Angelotti, an escaped political prisoner.

The role he played in Tosca

Composed by Giacomo Puccini and first performed in Rome on January 14, 1900, Tosca explores love, political repression and betrayal during the turbulent period of Napoleonic-era Rome.

Sánchez Ortega portrayed Cesare Angelotti, a political prisoner who escapes from Castel Sant’Angelo prison and seeks refuge in a church. His friend, painter Mario Cavaradossi, helps him hide from the authorities.

The singer’s removal has drawn attention to the company’s policy on political expression during performances and the consequences of making public gestures on stage.

Source: Radio-Canada.