Seiji Ozawa Music Academy Cancels ‘Die Fledermaus’ Due to Coronavirus

By Francisco Salazar

The Seiji Ozawa Music Academy in Japan has canceled its upcoming performances of “Die Fledermaus” due to the coronavirus.

The Academy released a statement noting, “We regret to announce that we are canceling the Seiji Ozawa Music Academy Opera Project XVIII performances of Johann Strauss II: ‘Die Fledermaus,’ which were scheduled for March 2020, in consideration of the spreading impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. The Seiji Ozawa Music Academy forms its orchestra with young, talented musicians who are chosen by audition from Japan and other Asian countries. Under the guidance of Academy Director Seiji Ozawa and coaches, they rehearse together with world-class singers and stage director to create an opera and then present those results in performances. Because this is an educational project that places value on the practice process and progress of growth, an environment where the students can focus with a feeling of security is very important.”

This is the latest organization in Japan to close its doors. The New National Theatre, Tokyo announced its closure early this week, while the National Symphony Orchestra canceled its tour to Japan.

Japan has thus far reported 175 cases of the coronavirus across 19 prefectures.

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