The association Liberi Oltre le Illusioni is requesting that the Arena Foundation of Verona and the Philharmonic Theatre of Verona cancel their collaboration with Russian opera singer Ildar Abdrazakov.

The association sites that Abdrazakov endorsed the “Putin List” during the Russian presidential elections, publicly expressing support for Kremlin policies, and was awarded a position by Putin on the Presidential Council for Arts and Culture, replacing someone who had advocated for peace.

The association also noted that Abdrazakov has been listed as an active supporter of the war (known as war enablers) by Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation due to his active support for the regime.

In a statement, the association said, “Now, the Arena Foundation of Verona and the Philharmonic Theatre of Verona also seem to ignore the moral responsibilities that come with hosting someone like Abdrazakov on their stage.”

Liberi Oltre le Illusioni is calling for reflection, asking the Arena Foundation of Verona and its founding members (listed on their website: Italian State, Ministry of Culture, Veneto Region, Municipality of Verona, Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Crafts and Agriculture of Verona, and Cattolica Assicurazioni) and the Philharmonic Theatre of Verona to act responsibly and ban Ildar Abdrazakov from their stage, in respect for the constitutional values of justice and democracy, ensuring that Italy does not become a refuge for Kremlin propaganda, but instead values the principle of freedom.

Following his endorsement of Putin, Abdrazakov was canceled from his contracts at the Teatro San Carlo in January 2025 and has been banned from major stages in the United States, Paris, Zurich, and Vienna. He also saw contracts canceled with the Orchestra of Santa Cecilia and split ties with his management Centre Stage Artist Management. He did, however, perform at the Ravenna Festival and has performed under Riccardo Muti in Tokyo.

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