Antonio Pappano's tenure as music director of the Royal Opera House culminated in a gala celebration on May 16, 2024. The event, held at the Royal Opera House in London, marked Pappano's 22 years in the role, during which he conducted 700 performances. Renowned for revitalizing the Royal Opera, Pappano’s work was honored by performances from distinguished artists such as Aigul Akhmetshina, Bryn Terfel, and Jonas Kaufmann.
The gala featured an 18-item program, focusing mainly on Italian repertoire and highlighting pieces by Rossini, Donizetti, Verdi, and Puccini. King Charles attended the event, expressing his admiration for Pappano's contributions to music and reflecting on their past collaborations, including the king’s coronation. Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment, described his health as "not too bad" after the event.
The evening concluded with King Charles on stage to acknowledge Pappano’s impact, and the night was filled with video tributes and heartfelt performances, showcasing the strong rapport Pappano has built with artists and the orchestra. This gala was a testament to Pappano’s profound influence on the Royal Opera and his enduring legacy in the world of classical music.