Netrebko reveals restaurant plans

Anna Netrebko and Erwin Schrott have said they want to open a restaurant.

The opera stars told magazine News today (Thurs) that their endeavour will probably take place in the Austrian capital Vienna.

“We are of the opinion that other things apart from opera must not be neglected. We will do this out of passion. We know it is hard to run an eatery in a professional way,” Netrebko explained, adding that both she and her husband love to cook and dine with friends.

Schrott stressed opening a restaurant would not mean he withdraws from the stage. “I have always loved multitasking. I don’t like focusing just on one issue. That’s when you get obsessed with something,” the Uruguayan told News.

Schrott – a celebrated bass-baritone – emphasised they will return to Vienna one day. Fans of the pair – who have a two-year-old son called Tiago Arua – feared they may leave the city for good when it emerged neither of them were scheduled for performances at the State Opera in the upcoming season.

Netrebko and Schrott will perform arias and duets at the Stadthalle in Vienna on 6 August before both are engaged at the Salzburg Festival (Salzburger Festspiele). The event’s official opening took place yesterday. German human rights activist Joachim Gauck and Austrian President Heinz Fischer held speeches at the occasion.

Netrebko told News she once called off a performance due to dispute with organisers about ticket prices. “I want people to enjoy our music without going bust,” the Russian-born soprano singer said.

Netrebko was awarded the Austrian citizenship in 2006. The decision – argued with her cultural achievements – was widely criticised as she spoke little German at that time. The opera star still prefers English in interviews and conversations with fans.

Speaking to News, both Netrebko and Schrott admitted they still were plagued by stage fright after performing in the world’s best opera houses.

Schrott said: “I’m still nervous. Not being nervous would mean that I don’t care about what I am doing. I consider every performance as a challenge.”

Netrebko – who has refused to reveal whether she and Schrott are married – added: “It’s the same with me because everything can happen on stage. I may hit a wrong note or even lose my voice – that’s what I’m scared about.”