The Sofia Opera in Bulgaria was forced to cancel its Sept. 26, 2025, performance after an audience member passed away before the performance.

Soprano Maria Jose Siri said, “Tonight we don’t sing ‘Tosca,’ we were ready to start. An elderly woman came alone to see our ‘Tosca’ at Sofia Opera, she said that she was feeling bad and she took the seat. Then she passed away silently. I don’t know her name yet, but I so much pray for her soul. We are all very sorry. We will recover the performance tomorrow and I so much dedicate the show to her silent name.”

Claudio Sgura, who was also performing, said, “To her and her family, I send my deepest condolences.”

The performance is set to be reprogrammed for Sept. 27, 2025, and also stars Stefan Pop with Daniel Oren conducting.