MILAN — Over a span of six years, photographer Gérard Uféras gained unrestricted access to the backstage of the La Scala ballet corps, culminating in a poignant series of authentic portraits that are now showcased in an exhibition at the theater’s museum, alongside an upcoming book.
Dominique Meyer, the opera house’s general manager, remarked on the rarity of having a ballet exhibition within a venue known predominantly for opera, emphasizing the significance of the event. However, the exhibit titled “The Hidden Gaze, Dance Behind the Curtain” underscores the long-standing connection between ballet and the theater’s artistic vision since its founding days. An informative timeline featured in the exhibition’s opening room highlights that La Scala’s very first performance, which took place on August 3, 1778, of Antonio Salieri’s “L’Europa riconosciuta,” was accompanied by two ballets.
Manuel Legris, who leads La Scala’s ballet corps, expressed that he granted Uféras unrestricted access to all backstage and rehearsal areas, encouraging him to capture unique experiences that portray the dancers’ lives. One of the most moving images features principal dancer Nicoletta Manni, seen backstage sharing a tender embrace with her husband, fellow principal dancer Timofej Andrijashenko, her expression reflecting the complete exhaustion and emotion after a vigorous performance. The exhibit’s leading photograph presents a young ballerina in a white tutu, peeking from behind the curtain, reminiscent of the works of celebrated French impressionist Edgar Degas.
Other captivating shots include dancers captured from above the stage lights, appearing to collapse after their performance, and illuminated from behind as they prepare to step onto the stage. “Your work brings our art to life,” Legris shared with Uféras in a video that complements the exhibition.
The photographs range from black and white to vibrant colors, artistically paired with delicate white paper sculptures depicting ballet costumes crafted by Caterina Crepax. These sculptures represent everything from the flowing skirts of the Romantic era to modern-day short dresses, including a dragonfly-themed ballet dress dedicated to the late La Scala star Carla Fracci.
The exhibition at the Teatro alla Scala museum is open to the public from Wednesday and will continue until September 14. Moreover, the corresponding book, which will delve deeper into this remarkable undertaking, is slated for release later this month.
