Divine Comedy Opera Musical Set for Landmark Chinese Tour
Beijing: The Divine Comedy Opera Musical, inspired by Dante’s timeless poem, is poised to make its debut in China on April 25. This extensive tour will span until September, visiting 15 cities, including major cultural hubs such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.
According to Ansa News Agency, the production promises an immersive experience lasting two and a half hours, exploring the realms of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. The show features about 60 Italian artists and is enhanced by remarkable technological effects. Dante’s enduring words serve as a cultural bridge, connecting diverse audiences.
Directed by Andrea Ortis, who also co-authored the text with Gianmario Pagano, the musical features music by Monsignor Marco Frisina and is produced by Francesco Gravina for Mic International Company. The musical was officially unveiled on March 25 at the Dante Alighieri Society in Rome, coinciding with Danted¬ (Dante Day). This date marks the day scholars believe Dante embarked on his journey into the Inferno during a midlife crisis.
Initially conceived in 2007, the show has enjoyed years of success in Italy and is now poised to captivate Asian audiences with its blend of theater, music, and dance. In light of current global tensions and divisions, director Ortis emphasized the show’s additional aim of fostering dialogue between two ancient civilizations. He highlighted the Italian cultural heritage through Dante’s masterpiece and its universal themes of justice, redemption, and human destiny, contrasting it with the rich Chinese philosophical and literary traditions.
Ortis stated, “Beauty is a bridge that can never collapse, it goes beyond time and space. Dante built the identity of our culture, which is the language. We now take the Silk Road again like Marco Polo and go to China, offering our identity through Dante and the Italian language. It is not just bringing a musical to another country: it is the ability of Italian culture to cross every barrier.”