Full Opera by Students & Graduates on the Main Stage

Every year, Teatro alla Scala presents a unique opportunity for the students and graduates of the Accademia Teatro alla Scala to showcase their skills on one of the most prestigious stages in the world. The entire opera is produced and performed by the students of the Accademia during the main La Scala Season in September. This project has been the cornerstone of the TASAA support from its inception.

For the 2025/2026 Season, a new production of Gaetano Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore, will feature six performances on the main stage of Teatro alla Scala in September 2026. The production will involve more than 150 students, including the Soloists of the Academy for Opera Singers, the Choir, and the Orchestra of the Academy. The opera will be conducted by M° Marco Alibrando, in his debut at Teatro alla Scala.

Classic Operas Adaptations for Children

For the very first time, the same opera, L’elisir d’amore, will be adapted into a shorter, 1-hour version suitable for children, the youngest audience of Teatro alla Scala.

This innovative approach supported by the American Association, continues the theater’s long-standing tradition of opening its doors to classical music and repertoire to the audiences of all ages.

This children’s version of the L’Elisir D’Amore is the first of several classic opera adaptations for children produced with the highest standards of Teatro alla Scala.

Another hallmark of the children’s opera productions is the participation of the Accademia students, which also offers the young performers to display their artistry.

The Great Performances for Children and Families initiative existed since 2014, bringing to the Teatro alla Scala stage the most celebrated titles of the opera repertoire, translated into language suited for children. Since then, these performances have become a fundamental part of the educational programs of La Scala with more than 250,000 children enjoying the shows with school trips or with their families, paying a symbolic €1 ticket price.

The adaptation of classic operas for children performed by the Accademia students adds another dimension to the “Great Performances for Children and Families” initiative and evolves into the new format “For the Young by the Young” proudly supported by the American Association of Teatro alla Scala.

Fundraising goal for “For the Young by the Young: L’elisir d’amore” project $ 500,000*

* As per approved grants of Teatro alla Scala Association of America