Berlin opera house sets new dates for Mozart work

BERLIN, Nov 2 (Reuters) A Berlin opera house set new dates for a Mozart work it had cancelled because of fears of an Islamic backlash, before reversing its decision after an outcry.

The Deutsche Oper announced last week it would stage the production of ''Idomeneo'', in which the severed head of the Prophet Mohammad is seen, after police changed their earlier view that it posed a security risk.

The opera house then said the earliest the production could be staged was December, but it gave no dates.

It said in a statement yesterday that performances had been scheduled for December 18 and 29.

Director Kirsten Harms sparked a row in September by cancelling the opera after she was told by police that the production, directed by Hans Neuenfels, posed an ''incalculable'' security risk.

After reassessing the situation, the police decided there was no concrete risk for the Deutsche Oper or its staff in staging the opera.

The cancellation was condemned by politicians, including Chancellor Angela Merkel, and artists who said Germany should not bow to fears of terrorism.

Shortly before the cancellation, Pope Benedict angered some Muslim leaders during a visit to Germany by quoting from a medieval text that linked the spread of Islam to violence.

The fears of violence in Berlin were also prompted by violent Muslim protests that followed the publication of cartoons lampooning Mohammad last year.

Integration has become a priority for the government as concern grows about Islamic radicalisation across Europe and the emergence of an underclass of disillusioned young Muslims, mainly Turks, in Germany.

Reuters SRS VP0432