Opera singer Anna Netrebko recently described a period of inner turmoil tied to political tensions she faced in Europe. She revealed she feared being added to the European Union sanctions list and worried that her Austrian passport could be revoked, which would threaten her livelihood and life as she knew it. She recalled sleepless nights spent worrying about what the next morning might bring, underscoring the emotional strain that accompanies public figures under scrutiny during times of geopolitical strain.
Netrebko also spoke about her stance on prejudice and hostility toward Russians. She outlined a strategy rooted in performance: selecting and presenting a repertoire by Russian composers that is often undervalued or deemed undesirable in the current climate, with the aim of prompting audiences to reassess assumptions and to foster a more nuanced understanding of the region’s rich musical heritage.
In discussing future plans, the artist indicated that a return to Russia for concerts is unlikely in the near term. This position aligns with her public objections to certain actions by the Russian military in Ukraine, signaling a careful balancing of artistic commitment with personal and political considerations.
Earlier reports noted Netrebko’s return to the stage at La Scala in Milan, marking a notable moment in her ongoing career and public life amidst global conversation about cultural figures and geopolitical events.