Paris Opera to overhaul recruitment practices in diversity push

New boss Alexander Neef promises shake-up of 350-year-old institution amid fierce culture wars' debate

The Paris Opera has vowed to overhaul its recruiting practices as it launched a drive towards greater diversity in the heart of its elite ballet company, orchestra and dance school.

The issue has already sparked fierce debate in France, with rightwingers accusing the Opera's new director general, Alexander Neef, of introducing American-style culture wars into its cloistered arts scene.