(Credit: ROH / Catherine Ashmore)

Jonas Kaufmann is set to open the 2021-22 season at the Teatro San Carlo di Napoli in the title role of Verdi’s “Otello.”

In an interview with La Repubblica, Stéphane Lissner said that Kaufmann would be joined by Maria Agresta in a new production by Mario Martone.

The new sovrintendente also announced his plans to bring the theater back to its golden age, noting that in future seasons the company will present such stars as Anna Netrebko, Ludovic Tezier, and Elīna Garanča. He also announced that he will create an Academy for young artist with two branches, “Il Settecento” led by Riccardo Muti, and  “Bel Canto” with Mariella Devia as the director.

Before taking over the Teatro San Carlo, Lissner was director at the Paris Opera and the sovrintendente at the Teatro alla Scala.