(Credits: © Algirdas Bakas / Julian Baumann)

The Wiener Staatsoper has confirmed that it will reopen on September 7, 2020.

Vienna’s operatic behemoth will restart its performances after a six-month hiatus with the production “Madama Butterfly.”

The strict COVID-19 rules for the audiences will include mandatory facemasks at all times, except when seated during the performance, and at least one meter of social distance. The opera house has stated that the intermissions will go on normally, but that the number of visitors allowed to the restrooms at the same time will be limited.

The audiences are instructed to put their facemasks on before the final applause. The opera house has also informed the public that visits to the backstage area will not be possible.

Due to the strict COVID-19 safety rules, standing room tickets will not be offered in their usual form.

The season’s opener will star Asmik Grigorian in the role of Cio-Cio-San, Freddie di Tommaso as B. F. Pinkerton, Boris Pinkasovich as Sharpless, and Virginie Verrez in the role of Suzuki.

Philippe Jordan conducts the production by Anthony Minghella. Carolyn Choa is the choreographer.