The Divine Comedy Opera Musical makes its debut in China, bridging Italy and the East through culture, with an immersive theatrical experience in 15 major cities.
 |
| The Divine Comedy Opera Musical offers an unforgettable performance in China, blending Italian artistry and Chinese tradition while fostering cultural dialogue and understanding. Image: Collected from Press Conference Video |
Rome, Italy — March 29, 2025:
The Divine Comedy Opera Musical, a groundbreaking production by MIC International Company, is set to embark on an extraordinary international journey, with its highly anticipated debut in China on April 25, 2025. This cultural milestone marks the beginning of an ambitious tour that will see the opera performed in 15 major cities across China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, in collaboration with We Opera Studio Limited.
The official announcement was made on March 25, 2025, during a press conference held at the prestigious Loggia del Primaticcio in Palazzo Firenze, the headquarters of the Dante Alighieri Society. The event brought together the producers of the show, Francesco and Leonardo Gravina, as well as the director and author of the libretto, Andrea Ortis, co-librettist Gianmario Pagano, and composer Marco Frisina. Alessandro Masi, Secretary General of the Dante Alighieri Society, introduced the event, highlighting the society’s continued support for this landmark cultural initiative.
A Cultural Bridge Between Italy and China
In an era marked by increasing polarization and geopolitical tensions, culture proves to be an invaluable tool for building bridges between diverse nations. The debut of The Divine Comedy Opera Musical in China is not only an artistic triumph but also a significant opportunity for cultural exchange between Italy and China. Through Dante’s timeless narrative, exploring universal themes such as justice, redemption, and the human condition, the opera transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, inviting both Italian and Chinese audiences to engage with shared human experiences.
The decision to bring one of Italy’s most iconic works to China echoes the spirit of discovery and cultural dialogue that Marco Polo fostered centuries ago. This performance opens the door for new reflections and understanding, uniting two of the world’s oldest and most influential civilizations through the power of art.
An Immersive and Spectacular Theatrical Experience
Directed by Andrea Ortis, with the libretto co-written by Ortis and Gianmario Pagano, and a score composed by Marco Frisina, The Divine Comedy Opera Musical has been lauded for its stunning stage design. With the use of cutting-edge 3D projections, the production brings the realms of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise to life in vivid detail, offering an immersive experience that captures the imagination of audiences of all ages.
The opera has garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious Dante Alighieri Society Gold Medal and Best Musical awards at the 2019 and 2020 Premio Persefone. Following a successful run in Italy, The Divine Comedy Opera Musical is now poised to captivate audiences across Asia, bringing a unique fusion of Italian heritage and modern theatrical innovation to the global stage.
Fostering Dialogue Through Culture
The debut of The Divine Comedy in China carries deeper significance beyond its artistic and entertainment value. It provides a platform for fostering academic and cultural dialogue between Italy and China, blending Western dramatic traditions with Chinese theatrical expressions. This encounter presents an exciting opportunity to create a new fusion of artistic interpretations, enriching both cultures.
In today’s fragmented world, art, theatre, music, and dance offer a powerful antidote to division and conflict. The Divine Comedy Opera Musical is not only a spectacular show but also a profound gesture of faith in the unifying potential of culture. It reaffirms the role of art in bridging divides, offering a timeless message of hope and reconciliation.
As this extraordinary opera embarks on its international tour, it reaffirms the belief that culture is one of the most powerful forces for transformation, capable of uniting people across borders and promoting lasting understanding.