South Africa sacks 12 opera singers after European triumphs
mainCape Town Opera has dismissed 12 chorus singers from this summer’s Cosi fan tutte at the Aix-en-Provence festival, accusing them of theft and breach of contract.
The singers are counter-suing for unfair dismissal, arguing that they were financially exploited by the company and sacked when they spoke up against abuses.
The international SA baritone Njabulo Madlala speaks of ‘the harshest levels of exploitation & treatment. This has been going on for years unchallenged. Those who retaliate are sued immediately and a clear message is sent to all others who are thinking of ever challenging the system.’
Lawyers expect the case to set a major precedent for singers in SA. Report here.
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