Anna Netrebko will be joining Paris Hilton at this years Wiener Opernball, previously touched-upon by Opera Chic here. But Netrebko wants everyone to know that she isn't getting paid, like a certain American socialite. From The Scotsman:
"Austro-Russian soprano Anna Netrebko will also add glamour to the red velvet splendour of the world famous Opera House when she comes on stage in a horse-drawn carriage at the ball to sing a Manon aria, State Opera Director Ioan Holender said."
"Celebrity heiress Paris Hilton is expected to appear on the arm of Viennese entrepreneur and socialite Richard Lugner. Every year Lugner pays a celebrity to sign autographs in his shopping centre and adorn his private box at the ball."
"In a shot at Lugner, Holender said Netrebko had decided to come and sing at the ball without taking money."
No words. I just hope Paris is wearing underwear, and that she and Netrebko don't wear the same dress.