New York’s Met Opera announces ‘necessary’ layoffs and pay cuts

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Maya YangJanuary 21, 2026 at 12:17 AM

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The Metropolitan Opera in New York City is implementing layoffs, pay cuts, and program reductions due to ongoing financial strain exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. The measures include salary reductions for 35 executives, including General Manager Peter Gelb and Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, and 22 layoffs among administrative staff. Programming will also be reduced, with one production postponed for the next season. These cuts aim to reduce expenses by $15 million in the current fiscal year and $25 million in the following year. The Met is awaiting a pending $200 million agreement with Saudi Arabia for performances at the Royal Diriyah Opera House, which is facing delays. Other potential revenue-generating initiatives being considered include selling the theater's naming rights and potentially selling two Marc Chagall murals.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Riyadh 60% Saudi Arabia ×270% Yannick Nézet-Séguin ×280% Peter Gelb ×390% New York Metropolitan Opera ×5100%

Keywords

metropolitan opera 100% pay cuts 90% layoffs 90% financial strain 80% saudi arabia agreement 70% program reductions 70% cost-cutting measures 60% covid pandemic 60% fiscal year 50% performing arts 40%