WORLD- renowned opera singer has launched an international battle for compensation based on a claim that his career was ruined following a terrifying accident.
David Montague-Rendall from Hampshire is claiming £250,000 for loss of earnings since the terrifying accident, which occurred when part of a two-tier set collapsed on top of him at the Copenhagen Opera House.
Having fallen about 15ft, Mr Montague-Rendall shattered his left hip and damaged both shoulders, but managed to crawl to safety, thus avoiding being crushed.
Despite making stage appearances since the accident, the 61-year-old from Brockenhurst says that bookings had dried up because opera companies were in doubt over his ability to achieve similar high standards. He held his last performance two years ago.
Mr Montague-Rendall is now suing the Danish Ministry of Culture, who are the owners of the theatre.
“During the performance two stage levels were raised to give the impression that I was underground in a tomb,” the singer said.
“On the night in question the stage above went sideways instead of up, resulting in the destruction of the set. I was knocked down at least 15 feet and tried to crawl to safety to avoid being crushed.”
Showered in debris after the accident, Mr Montague-Rendall has now instructed Irwin Mitchell, an international law firm to pursue his claim for compensation.
A spokesman for Irwin Mitchell said: “The lost earnings for an opera singer of our client’s stature are considerable. Although he’s received some recompense it’s insignificant considering the fact that his career has been ruined and he’s been forced to sell his house.
“The Danish Ministry of Culture has admitted liability but refuses to acknowledge the extent of the damage caused.
“Mr Montague-Rendall’s case will now be heard in a Danish court, where we will continue to fight for justice on behalf of our client.”
The singer was performing in the opera Aida as principal tenor in April 2005 when the accident occurred.
During the months following his fall, Mr Montague-Rendall underwent a hip replacement, a subsequent knee joint replacement and extensive shoulder surgery.
In 2008, Mr Montague-Rendall and his wife Diana were served a noise abatement notice by the New Forest District Council, after neighbours complained about the sound made by their outdoor swimming pool heating equipment.
Having lodged an appeal, the notice against the couple was subsequently withdrawn.
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