Greek conductor Teodor Currentzis was disrupted during a performance of Wagner’s Ring Without Words with his ensemble, MusicAeterna, at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) on Friday evening.
According to videos taken from the audience, an attendee wearing white was escorted out after causing a disturbance. Witnesses reported that near the end of the piece, as the music was fading, the individual shouted profanities in English, including “rubbish” and “F***, this is not f***ing Wagner,” before Currentzis could lower his arms at the conclusion. The interruption forced the conductor to put down his baton and end the performance prematurely.
The gender of the audience member, who was immediately escorted to leave the auditorium by ushers, could not be determined.
Other audience members reacted with a mix of shock and disapproval. Some shouted phrases such as “shame on you” toward the individual, while others applauded after the situation was resolved. A number of audience members said they felt offended by the audience’s use of profanity and timing, noting that such behaviour disrespected the performers and the rest of the audience. Some patrons expressed concern that the incident cast an unwelcome light on concert etiquette in China.
Currentzis has been a polarising figure in China in recent years, with debates often sparked by his unconventional interpretations of classical repertoire. While some fans continue to support his approach to music-making, Friday’s incident represents the culmination of growing tensions among certain members of the audience.
Despite the controversy, many in attendance continued to praise the performance and the skill of the musicians. NCPA staff promptly handled the situation, ensuring that the curtain call proceeded without further disruption.
