Conductor Dudamel Criticizes Chalamet's 'Ignorance' on Opera and Ballet

Famed maestro says actor's claim that 'no one cares' about classical arts shows lack of understanding.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Renowned conductor Gustavo Dudamel has criticized actor Timothée Chalamet for claiming that 'no one cares' about opera and ballet, saying the Oscar-nominated star's comments demonstrate a troubling 'ignorance' about the classical arts.

Why it matters

Dudamel's rebuke highlights the ongoing challenges classical music and dance face in attracting new, younger audiences, even from prominent figures in the entertainment industry. As a leading voice in the classical world, Dudamel's comments underscore the need to 'open more spaces' for people to engage with and appreciate these art forms.

The details

In a recent interview, Chalamet had stated that 'no one cares' about opera and ballet, drawing a strong response from Dudamel. The famed Venezuelan conductor, who is the music and artistic director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, said Chalamet's remarks reflected a 'little bit of ignorance' about the enduring appeal and importance of classical music and dance.

  • Chalamet made the comments in a recent interview.

The players

Gustavo Dudamel

A renowned Venezuelan conductor who is the music and artistic director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Timothée Chalamet

An Oscar-nominated actor who recently claimed that 'no one cares' about opera and ballet.

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What they’re saying

“Sadly sometimes it's a little bit of ignorance but, look, that is why we have to open more spaces for people to connect with classical music.”

— Gustavo Dudamel, Conductor

The takeaway

Dudamel's rebuke of Chalamet's comments underscores the ongoing challenge of attracting new, younger audiences to classical music and dance. As a leading figure in the classical arts, Dudamel's call to 'open more spaces' for people to engage with these forms reflects the need for greater outreach and education to overcome perceptions of elitism or irrelevance.