The Divine Comedy, Musical Opera

THE DIVINE COMEDY – MUSICAL OPERA
Duration: approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes including interval

In past seasons, the acclaimed colossal production has enchanted Italy’s major theaters with repeated sold-out performances, and in 2025 it returns with renewed power and extraordinary beauty, with an international tour at the most important theaters in China. The greatest tale of the human soul, its misery and its strength, amid vices, sins, and virtues that defy the wear of time, takes the form of a performance combining voices, dance, and technology in a staging so extraordinary that The Divine Comedy – Musical Opera has earned the Gold Medal from the Società Dante Alighieri, been awarded Best Musical twice at the Persefone Prize (2019 and 2020), and received institutional recognition in 2021 from the Senate of the Republic, the sponsorship of the Ministry of Culture in 2021, as well as the enduring moral support of the Società Dante Alighieri.

In this theatrical journey, where technology is an essential element of the narrative, all spectators, including the youngest, can fully admire the greatness of the Supreme Poet. The value of this text lies in its modernity and the cultural identity it carries. It is a cornerstone of Italian culture, speaking of us and our heritage, infused with art and genius. Dante’s condition and his genius reflect the limits and profound humanity of man; on stage, within a story that begins (Inferno), evolves (Purgatorio), and culminates (Paradiso), the audience experiences a complete and intact Divine Comedy. The theatrical work is built on versatile sets, acrobatic choreography, evocative costumes, cutting-edge 3D projections, all accompanied by stirring orchestral music. The 2026 edition will feature numerous innovations, including new texts and scenic tableaux designed by the director and creative team to make the musical opera a modern theatrical colossal.

Program and cast

Director: Andrea Ortis
Narrator: Giancarlo Giannini
Music: Marco Frisina

With
Antonello Angiolillo as Dante,
Andrea Ortis as Virgil,
Myriam Somma as Beatrice

Texts: Gianmario Pagano and Andrea Ortis
Choreography: Massimiliano Volpini
Scenography: Lara Carissimi
Lighting: Valerio Tiberi
Video: Virginio Levrio
Sound: Francesco Iannotta
Production: MIC International Company
Organizer: Antico Teatro Pagliano