La Scala’s renovation woes

The ambitious three-year renovation of Milan’s famed La Scala opera house, begun in January 2002, is undergoing troubles of operatic proportion.

Earlier this year, an Italian preservationist group protested the demolition of the stage and some backstage areas called for by architect Mario Botta’s extensive modernization.

Now fears are growing over news that the water level under the theater has risen by 31 inches. The proposed new stage tower will require foundations of at least 18 meters deep, leaving the lowest 13 feet of the structure underwater.

La Scala, built by Giuseppe Piermarini in 1775-78, is considered one of the finest opera houses in the world.

Last month, La Scala suffered a minor scare when a small piece of wood caught fire under the stage during renovations. Performances will continue at La Scala’s new temporary home, the Arcimboli theater on the outskirts of Milan, until the completion of the renovation, slated for December 2004.