WASHINGTON, DC — GNUSA [Photos by Greece in Washington/FB – Italy in US /FB]
A landmark cultural moment unfolded on Thursday, January 22, as the Luther W. Brady Art Gallery unveiled a rare exhibition showcasing six original opera costumes created for the legendary Maria Callas at Teatro alla Scala in Milan. It marks the first time these historic garments—worn by one of opera’s most celebrated voices—have ever been displayed in the United States.
Titled “Callas at La Scala: Costumes for Ifigenia, Amina, Anna, Fiorilla”, the exhibition highlights Callas in four of her most iconic roles: Ifigenia in Ifigenia in Tauride, Amina in La Sonnambula, Anna in Anna Bolena, and Fiorilla in Il Turco in Italia. The costumes, loaned by the Fondazione Teatro alla Scala, offer an intimate look at the artistry and craftsmanship that shaped Callas’ stage presence and cemented her status as “La Divina”.
The opening ceremony on January 22 drew distinguished guests, including Ambassador of Greece Antonis Alexandridis and Ambassador of Italy Marco Peronaci, who both spoke to Callas’ enduring legacy and the significance of cultural collaboration between their nations.
The exhibition is the result of a partnership between the Italian Cultural Institute of Washington, the Embassy of Greece, and George Washington University’s Brady Art Gallery. Alongside the costumes, visitors can view original sketches, archival photographs, and interpretive materials that illuminate the creative synergy between Callas and renowned designers Nicola Benois and Piero Tosi, as well as famed director Franco Zeffirelli. Each costume is displayed against a backdrop inspired by its respective opera, with selections curated by Caterina d’Amico.
Adding a contemporary academic dimension, students from GW’s Corcoran Theater and Dance program—under the guidance of Professor Tanya Williams Wetenhall—conducted extensive research on Callas, the designers, and the operas. Their scholarship forms the exhibition’s label text and will continue to inform coursework throughout the spring semester.
Running from January 21 through March 21, 2026, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity for opera lovers, historians, and art enthusiasts to experience the elegance, drama, and historical significance of Callas’ stage wardrobe up close.
Support for the exhibition is provided by the Director’s Discretionary Fund, the Frances and Leonard Burka Fund for the Arts, and the Friends of the Luther W. Brady Art Gallery.
