Cast member unfurls large Palestinian flag on London's Royal Opera House stage
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A video shows a performer in a tussle with an official, as they refuse to relinquish the Palestinian flag, and continue to display it, at one point shaking it gently.
Seconds later, other officials, thought to be staff at the Royal Opera House, were shouting messages to the protesting actor from the wings, who looked ahead and appeared to ignore them. At the same time, the audience continued to applaud the performance.
Royal Ballet and Opera said the protest was 'completely inappropriate for a curtain call.'
A spokesperson told the BBC: 'The display of the flag was spontaneous and unauthorized action by the artist. It was not approved by the Royal Ballet and Opera and is not in line with our commitment to political impartiality.'
During the tussle, two performers beside the protester lurched to the side, while cast members further forward appeared oblivious to the situation.
Palestinian flags are commonly seen at protests supporting Gaza, as Israeli attacks on the Palestinian coastal enclave have continued since late 2023.
The flag of Palestine has also appeared at major events in the UK, including the Glastonbury Festival, where some bands and artists have featured it on stage.
The identity of the cast member remains unclear. 'Il Trovatore' concluded its 11-night run at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, on Saturday.
One member of the audience posted on X: 'Extraordinary scenes at the Royal Opera House tonight.
'During the curtain call for 'Il Trovatore,' one of the background artists came on stage waving a Palestine flag.
'Just stood there, no bowing or shouting. Someone offstage kept trying to take it off him. Incredible.'
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