La Scala dancers on pandemic life, streaming, and resilience

Christian Fagetti and Virna Toppi, dancers at Teatro alla Scala in Milan, describe their experience during the pandemic. Fagetti notes that professional life has nearly returned to normal with strict protocols and constant testing, though masks are always worn. Toppi feels privileged to work safely but misses live audiences. During the first lockdown, Fagetti started Instagram barre classes, later involving colleagues, creating a positive exchange. Toppi participated and also taught for Roberto Bolle's 'On Dance' platform while stuck in Munich. Both find recorded performances aseptic and different from live shows, but Toppi sees streaming as a way to reach those who cannot afford or access the theater, though she fears it might become a substitute. La Scala has been a digital pioneer with behind-the-scenes Instagram live streams and masterclasses, which dancers hope will continue post-pandemic as a complement, not replacement, to live experience.