South Korean conductor Myung-Whun Chung's stint as La Scala's musical director will start with a production of Giuseppe Verdi's Otello, directed by Damiano Michieletto, the legendary Milanese opera house said on Friday.
    Otello has not been performed at La Scala for 37 years.
    This year's production on the opening night of the 2026-27 season will take place on the 50th anniversary of State broadcaster Rai's first live broadcast, which featured Franco Zeffirelli's Otello.
    The opera, based on Shakespeare's play Othello, was first performed on February 5, 1887, at La Scala.
    Chung, who succeeds Riccardo Chailly, will be in charge of La Scala until 2030 at least.
    "Thirty-seven years ago, I was appointed director of the Paris Opera, perhaps it was too early," Chung said.
    "I didn't speak French, but I had plenty of energy.
    "I was appointed to La Scala at 73, perhaps a little late now.
    I've lost a lot of energy, but I have more experience.
    "What I can do is offer this love I have to the theatre and the musicians.
    "I'm ready to do anything to help," he added, saying he was ready to take Italian lessons.
    "I don't know Milan.

I only travel from the theatre to the hotel," he said.
    "Now I'll see it and study the Italian I learned in restaurants.
    Over 40 years ago, I wanted to come to Italy to eat.

I love Italian cuisine: it's an excellent starting point".
   

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