Milan’s Teatro alla Scala is among the most famous venues for the performing arts, and its commanding position in the world of opera is celebrated and documented here in spectacular photographs which record the thrill of each opening night since 1945. This series of breathtaking images capture the excitement and glamour of opening night—the key society event in Milan that takes place every December 7th in honor of St. Ambrose, the city’s patron saint. This trove of images features events on the main stage as well as behind the scenes, capturing in all their glory a glittering pantheon of international opera stars (Callas, Pavarotti, Domingo) and the music world’s greatest conductors (Karajan, Abbado, Muti). This is a must-have book for any opera lover.