Berlin opera house sets dates for Mozart work

An opera house in Berlin has decided to re-instate performances of an opera that it originally cancelled over fears it would provoke a backlash from Islamic militants. The Director of the Deutsche Oper cancelled the work, Idomeneo, after police said it posed an “incalculable” security risk. During the production, directed by Hans Neuenfels, a performer brandishes the severed head of the prophet Mohammed.

Germany’s leading politicians and artists condemned the earlier cancellation, saying the opera house should not pander to fears of terrorism. Police have reassessed the situation and now say there is no risk to the venue or the staff. The opera is scheduled to take place on 18 and 29 December.

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