Maria di Freda spent nearly fifty years working in a variety of roles at Milan’s Teatro alla Scala
Born in 1950 in the Italian province of Avellino, Maria di Freda began her career at La Scala in 1973. In 1991, she was made its chief of staff, and in 1994 took on the challenge of being the assistant to Superintendent Carlo Fontana, during the period when the house was being converted into a privately-owned foundation.
She was promoted to Head of Institutional Relations in 1998, and in 2003, she managed La Scala’s return to its main site following a period of restoration.
Between 2008 and 2021, Di Freda served as General Director for the house, working under Stephane Lissner, Alexander Pereira, and Dominique Meyer.
During her tenure, Di Freda managed 85 tours in 32 countries, built a strong relationship with the Rai broadcasting company, and worked on the plan to transfer the theater’s workshops and warehouses to the Rubattino area.
La Scala plans to organize a tribute to Di Freda in the fall of 2025. Our condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.
“The workers of the Theater alla Scala, together with the Superintendent Fortunato Ortombina, the Musical Director Riccardo Chailly, the Director of the Dance Corps Frédéric Olivieri, the Choir Master Alberto Malazzi and the whole Management, are sending their deepest condolences to the family of Maria Di Freda, who passed away yesterday,” La Scala wrote in a statement.
“We will remember her infallible dedication, resolute and combative character, humanity and affection for the Scaligera family.”