The Festival d’Aix en Provence has announced a cast change for its production of “Pelléas et Mélisande.”

The company said that due to personal reasons, Julia Bullock will not be able to come to Aix this summer. Chiara Skerath will take over the role of Melisande.

Bullock took to social media and said, “It’s with some sadness to share that I have to withdraw from “Pelléas et Mélisande,” at Festival d’Aix-en-Provence this summer, because of a non-life threatening illness affecting my child, and the doctor has advised against travel while undergoing treatment. I and my family appreciate the unconditional support and understanding expressed by Festival d’Aix and the entire creative team. This was a dream role, in a dream production, with a dream cast. Wishing everyone on the project well, especially the lovely Chiara Skerath who will join the rehearsal process this week. (And I look forward to another opportunity to sing Mélisande.)”

She added, “Grieving a bit at the moment, as a parent & artist, but the health and welfare of our precious kiddo are the primary concern. And while we aren’t ready to disclose more details about a diagnosis at this time, we can share that the symptoms came on very suddenly, and thankfully we were able to consult with specialists in Germany almost immediately. Take good care of yourselves and your loved ones.”

Skerath is set to join a cast that includes Huw Montague Rendall, Laurent Naouri, Vincent Le Texier, Lucile Richardot, and Emma Fekete.

“Pelléas et Mélisande” is set to run between July 6 and 17, 2024.