20.10.2026 17:43
Artist Gabriel Sanchez-Ortega, who unfurled a Palestinian flag at the end of the opera "Tosca" staged in Calgary, Canada, was removed from the production. Calgary Opera announced that the artist would not take part in the remaining performances, stating that individual political protests were contrary to institutional policy. Sanchez-Ortega said he did not regret what he did.
An opera performer in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, was removed from the remaining performances after unfurling a Palestinian flag at the end of the show. According to CBC News, the decision was based on the institution’s policy on political protests.
UNFURLED A FLAG AT THE END OF THE PERFORMANCE At the end of Calgary Opera’s October 16 performance of “Tosca,” Gabriel Sanchez-Ortega, who portrayed the character Cesare Angelotti, unfurled a Palestinian flag.
“UNEXPECTED AND UNAUTHORIZED” In a statement from Calgary Opera, the events were described as “unexpected and unauthorized.” The statement noted that individual political protests are contrary to the institution’s policy and said Sanchez-Ortega would not be part of the production in the remaining performances.
Gabriel Sanchez-Ortega “I HAVE NO REGRETS” According to CBC’s report, Sanchez-Ortega posted on his social media account after the incident and stressed that he had no regrets. Stating that portraying a political prisoner was a source of pride for him, Sanchez-Ortega said, “Whether political or not, after the show we all have to go home and look at ourselves in the mirror.”