In a moment that could have been scripted in a dystopian scene from “The Handmaid’s Tale”, the English National Opera (ENO) issued layoff notices to artists during the intermission of the opera’s final performance.

According to Slipped Disc, musicians and cast members were alerted to their impending job losses via email during the final performance break of “The Handmaid’s Tale.” Equal parts shocked and horrified — many were unsure whether to leave mid-performance or carry on performing.

What happened?

The ENO has been experiencing serious financial difficulties, exacerbated by a significant cut in its annual grant. The decision was made by ENO management to deliver redundancy notifications via email but failed to consider that the artists would be performing.

Despite the shock, the ensemble’s commitment shone through as they completed the performance, earning acclaim from an unsuspecting audience.

Voices of Discontent

Reaction to the move has received widespread disapproval from the public.

Navigating Troubled Waters

Just before the layoffs, the musicians at the English National Opera voted to cancel their planned strike following a settlement with the management regarding the proposed reductions in staff.

The decision for the strike was due to the ENO’s announcement of its intention to reduce their employment to just six months per year and to eliminate 19 out of the 69 positions in the orchestra.

In that same period, the renowned opera company was compelled to move its headquarters from London after Arts Council England (ACE) revised its funding strategy. ACE threatened to withdraw its annual grant of £12 million unless the opera company relocated. Since then, the funding agency has started to reinstate financial support.

While considering cities such as Birmingham, Bristol, Liverpool, and Nottingham for its new location, ENO ultimately chose Manchester as its primary location starting in 2029.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Michael Vincent

Michael Vincent is the Editor-in-chief Ludwig Van and CEO of Museland Media. He publishes regularly and writes occasionally. A specialist in digital media for over 15 years, he has worked as a senior editor and is a former freelance classical music critic for the Toronto Star. Michael holds a Doctorate in Music from the University of Toronto.

Latest posts by Michael Vincent (see all)

• Vale, Maestro: Sir Andrew Davis (1944–2024) - April 22, 2024
• The Lord of the Rings Opera Gets Green Light from Tolkien Estate - April 15, 2024
• Chicago Takes the Leap with Youngest Appointment in CSO History - April 8, 2024