The famous Scala di Milano theatre does not allow admission to spectators who show up wearing shorts, t-shirts, or flip-flops. In contrast, kimonos are deemed perfectly acceptable.

The theatre’s management has issued a strict reminder of dress code protocol, following complaints about patrons appearing in beachwear. A sign at the entrance urges spectators to choose “clothing that is in keeping with the character of the theatre”, warning that those wearing “t-shirts, shorts or flip-flops” will not be admitted, nor will their ticket price be refunded. The warning is now included on tickets and the opera’s website.

This directive has been in place since 2015, when the Scala remained open throughout the summer due to the Milan World Expo and wanted to prevent spectators in … swimwear. However, until now it had not been strictly adhered to, mainly due to the more tolerant attitude of the theatre’s former director, Dominique Meyer.

“The rules must now be observed, particularly because of the high temperatures,” said a theater spokesman, noting that “some audience members are disturbed to see others sitting next to them in flip-flops in a venue where the seats are so close together.”

It’s worth noting that the ban does not apply to women’s sleeveless dresses or tops. Also, according to Corriere della Sera, Japanese visitors in kimonos and traditional footwear are not barred from entering.

Before 2015, tickets to the Scala simply had the recommendation for “jacket and tie”, with no mandatory application. However, it remained an unwritten rule to look smart. “It’s not right to tell someone how to dress, but they should at least be dressed,” the spokesperson said.

The reminder about dress is part of a larger context of renewing the rules of conduct in the theater. It is now forbidden to eat or drink, take photographs or videos during performances, and there is also a ban on placing mobile phones on box railings, as there has been an incident of a device falling on a spectator.