(Photo Credit: E. Blaževič/LRT nuotr.)

The Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet has decided to suspend its activities starting immediately due to the rising COVID-19 threat.

Performances of the ballet “Giselle” slated for August 12, 13 & 14 have been postponed for September. Specific dates will be announced on a later occasion.

The latest development at the LNOBT comes two days after it was confirmed that the Director of the Opera house Jonas Sakalauskas had tested positive for COVID-19. In the meantime, it was confirmed that Sakalauskas’ deputy Jurgita Skiotytė-Norvaišienė ended up in hospital over COVID-19 complications. Sakalauskas is currently in the self-isolation in his home.

In a public letter, Director of LNOBT stated that all the performers who have been rehearsing for the ballet “Giselle” and Donizzeti and Romani’s opera “Anna Bolena” have tested negative to COVID-19 prior to the beginning of the rehearsals. Sakalauskas also added that it would be difficult for the ballet dancers and singers to rehearse with their facemasks on, so it was not a requirement at the time.

“The management of the house tried in every way to control the situation,” Sakalauskas added.

The Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet has over 600 employees.