Rome – Once again, culture proves to be a driver for dialogue and connection between peoples. “The Divine Comedy Opera Musical”, the acclaimed theatrical colossal produced by MIC International Company, is preparing to move outside Italy on an ambitious international tour. Starting on 25 April 2025, the opera will make its debut in China, in a series of 15 major cities that include Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, in collaboration with We Opera Studio Limited. An extraordinary event that was officially presented on Tuesday 25 March in the prestigious Loggia del Primaticcio of Palazzo Firenze, headquarters of the Dante Alighieri Society.
The press conference was attended by Francesco and Leonardo Gravina, producers of the show for MIC International Company, the director and author of the libretto, Andrea Ortis and Gianmario Pagano, and composer Marco Frisina. The event was introduced by the Secretary General of the Dante Alighieri Society, Alessandro Masi, evidence of this institution’s constant support for a cultural initiative of international import.
A cultural bridge between Italy and China
At a moment in our history marked by geopolitical tensions and increasing polarisation, culture asserts its role as an instrument for encounter and mutual understanding. Bringing “The Divine Comedy Opera Musical” to China is not only an artistic achievement, it is also an opportunity for dialogue between two millenary civilisations. Dante’s masterpiece, with its powerful narrative and universal themes of justice, redemption, and human destiny, breaks down boundaries of time and place, bringing seemingly distant cultures closer together.
This encounter with the Chinese philosophical and literary tradition opens up new perspectives for reflection and sharing, reaffirming the value of culture as an instrument of rapprochement between East and West. In the wake of Marco Polo’s legacy, MIC International Company chooses to undertake this journey with the same spirit of discovery and wonder, bringing one of the most representative works of Italian heritage to the East.
Extraordinary stage sets
Directed by Andrea Ortis, who also edited the libretto together with Gianmario Pagano, and with music by Marco Frisina, “The Divine Comedy Opera Musical” stands out for its impressive stage design. Thanks to the use of immersive 3D projections, the show transports the audience into the evocative atmospheres of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise, offering an engaging experience that captivates spectators of all ages.
Winner of prestigious awards, such as the Dante Alighieri Society Gold Medal and Best Musical at the 2019 and 2020 Premio Persefone awards, this opera has enjoyed extraordinary success in past Italian theatre seasons. Now, with its international debut, it is preparing to conquer Asian audiences as well.
Culture as a tool for dialogue
The performance of the “Divine Comedy” in China takes on a deeper meaning not limited to its artistic dimension, as it is an opportunity to foster cultural exchange and academic dialogue between Italy and China. With its ancient roots and modern forms of expression, the Chinese theatre tradition will be able to interact with Western dramatic language, generating a new fusion of art and interpretation.
In an era marked by division and conflict, theatre, music, and dance become instruments of unity, capable of conveying universal messages and creating bridges where politics and economics often raise barriers. “The Divine Comedy Opera Musical” confirms its role not only as a spectacular show, but also as a gesture of faith in the transformative power of art.