7 December marks the opening performance of La Scala's 2008/09 season, which for the first time ever will be simulcast live around the world.
This year's Italian job is a new production of Verdi's Don Carlo, directed by Stéphane Braunschweig and conducted by Daniele Gatti. Fabulous Ferruccio Furlanetto plays Philip II, as he did to all-round satisfaction in the recent Covent Garden production. Giuseppe Filianoti, Dalibor Jenis, Matti Salminen, Fiorenza Cedolins and Dolora Zajick bask in the glow of his star powah.
Participating cinemas in London are the Curzon Chelsea and Curzon Richmond. Tickets cost an eyewatering £25 - no wonder they haven't sold out yet - and can be purchased online here.
Anyone thinking of going needs to be aware that one of the Italian stage unions may scupper the show by going on strike. Check out Opera Chic for the latest news.
