By: Sophia Wang

African American soprano Angel Blue was supposed to perform in Verdi’s “La Traviata” at the Arena de Verona in Italy. However, she canceled the performance due to an earlier performance of “Aida” where the performers used blackface.

“Let me be perfectly clear: the use of blackface under any circumstances, artistic or otherwise, is a deeply misguided practice based on archaic theatrical traditions which have no place in modern society. It is offensive, humiliating, and outright racist. Full stop.” Blue wrote in an Instagram post.

Blackface is a practice where white actors blacken their faces with makeup. The act is dehumanizing to black people and only strengthens stereotypes.

The Arena challenged Blue, asking her why she hadn’t canceled the performance earlier.

“Angel Blue knowingly committed herself to sing at the Arena” even though the “characteristics” of the 2002 Zeffirelli staging were “well known.” they said in a statement.

Blue was still listed on the Arena’s website as performing in “La Traviata” on July 22 and 30.

Fortunately, many other opera singers praised Blue on her decision.

Opera Singer, Ryan Speedo Green wrote in a comment, “Thank you for standing up for us. This practice needs to stop and all the artist/administrations who support it should be put on blast so their support of racist practice can be brought to light,”

Sources:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/music/2022/07/16/angel-blue-withdraw-aida-blackface/

https://www.npr.org/2022/07/16/1111896053/angel-blue-italy-opera-blackface