Fortunato Ortombina, hailing from Mantua, has been appointed as the fresh helmsman of La Scala, Milan's esteemed opera house. Formerly steering the ship at Venice's Teatro La Fenice, Ortombina's elevation to this prestigious role was met with unanimous approval, marking his official commencement on August 1, 2025. He takes the baton from Dominique Meyer, the French impresario who presided over the opera house since 2010.

However, Ortombina's ascent wasn't devoid of contention. Giorgia Meloni, Italy's far-right Premier, has been vocal about favoring Italians for pivotal cultural posts, reflecting a nationalist undercurrent. In response, Italy enacted a law in May 2023 barring individuals over 70 from leading its state-owned opera houses, a move perceived by critics like Alberto Mattioli as targeting certain foreign directors. Stéphane Lissner, a French director, felt the brunt of this legislation when he was initially ousted from Teatro San Carlo in Naples, only to be reinstated following a legal battle.

Ortombina brings a rich tapestry of musical expertise to his new role, having delved into trombone, composition, and musicology. His tenure at the National Verdi Study Institute, where he meticulously worked on Verdi's autograph scores and unearthed previously unknown compositions, underscores his dedication to the craft. With prior directorial experience at both Teatro La Fenice and La Scala, Ortombina stands poised to orchestrate a new chapter in the opera house's legacy.

Gennaro Sangiuliano, Italy's culture minister, lauded Ortombina's appointment as a homecoming of sorts, marking the return of an Italian steward to La Scala after a series of foreign directors. Sangiuliano emphasized that the decision was driven by a commitment to the opera house's welfare, upholding principles of dignity and equity.