Bayreuth Festival cancels Jewish speaker Michel Friedman over security, then reverses
The Bayreuth Festival, celebrating its 150th anniversary this summer, canceled a lecture by Michel Friedman, a prominent figure in the German Jewish community, citing security concerns. The decision sparked outrage, leading the festival's director, Katharina Wagner—the composer's great-granddaughter—to reverse the cancellation. The incident rekindles debate over Richard Wagner's antisemitism and its legacy at the festival.
Key facts
- Michel Friedman, a leading figure in the German Jewish community, was scheduled to give a lecture at the Bayreuth Festival.
- The festival canceled the lecture, citing security reasons.
- The cancellation caused a public outcry.
- Katharina Wagner, the festival director and great-granddaughter of Richard Wagner, reversed the decision.
- The Bayreuth Festival is celebrating its 150th anniversary this summer.
- The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding Richard Wagner's antisemitic views.
Entities
Artists
- Richard Wagner
- Katharina Wagner
Institutions
- Bayreuth Festival
Locations
- Bayreuth
- Germany