During the curtain call of Il Trovatore on July 19, a cast member at the Royal Opera House sparked controversy by raising a large Palestinian flag on stage.

A video shared by X user Syd Cassimaty shows the performer standing silently at the back of the stage, gently waving the flag as the audience applauds. A man then emerges from the wings and tries to take the flag, but the performer resists and holds on firmly.

Nearby cast members appear to react to the scuffle, while others at the front continue bowing, seemingly unaware of the protest behind them. Officials in the wings call out to the performer, who remains focused and does not respond.

The Royal Ballet and Opera issued a statement condemning the act as “completely inappropriate for a curtain call.” They explained the flag display was spontaneous and unauthorised, not approved by the organisation, and contrary to their commitment to political impartiality.

Audience responses were divided. Magdalini Liousa from London called the moment “really powerful” and described the performer as “brave.” Christopher from Glossop said it “spoiled the atmosphere at the end of a brilliant performance.”

Another attendee, who wished to stay anonymous, said there were two attempts to take the flag, with only the second captured on video.

The performer’s identity remains unknown.

Il Trovatore finished its 11-night run at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden on Saturday.