Calgary Opera removes singer waving Palestinian flag during opening night curtain call

Calgary Opera has removed bass-baritone Gabriel Sanchez-Ortega from the remaining performances of “Tosca” after he displayed a Palestinian flag during the opening-night curtain call. The company said the act was unauthorised and breached its policy against personal protest, which it says applies regardless of the symbol; the decision raises questions about how arts organisations handle political expression on stage.

Sanchez-Ortega said he had no regret and claimed the company faced financial threats over the incident, though Calgary Opera declined to comment on personnel matters. He played Angelotti, an escaped political prisoner, and has been replaced for the rest of the run, including the closing performance on 24 October 2026. The company said it had reiterated its expectations to the cast and production team and regretted any distress caused.