by InTrieste
This summer, Teatro Verdi di Trieste will host a unique musical event that promises to blend historical depth with artistic innovation. On July 30 and 31, the theater will present the European premiere of “MIMMA,” a musical that explores the little-known stories of Italian emigrants in England during World War II. The performances, starting at 8:30 PM, mark a significant cultural moment for this picturesque city nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Slovenian mountains.
“MIMMA” arrives in Trieste following its acclaimed debut at Cadogan Hall in London with the BBC Concert Orchestra. The musical is based on the novel by English writer Giles Watson, featuring a libretto by Simon Evans and music by Australian composer Ronald Siemiginowski. The Orchestra della Fondazione Teatro Lirico Giuseppe Verdi di Trieste will bring this poignant story to life, blending jazz, musical theatre, and operatic arias to create a rich, melodic tapestry that evokes the atmosphere of 1930s and ’40s Europe.
The narrative centers on Mimma, an Italian journalist who escapes her homeland amidst the turmoil of war. In London, she finds refuge with her uncle Lorenzo, who runs a jazz club. There, Mimma’s friendship with the club’s singer, Sarah, becomes a beacon of hope as they navigate the perils of wartime and the ensuing persecution of foreign residents in the UK. This story of friendship and resilience resonates deeply with Trieste’s own multicultural heritage and history as a crossroads of Mediterranean and Slavic cultures.
Giuliano Polo, Superintendent of Teatro Verdi, emphasizes the broader vision behind this event: “The new summer season in Trieste, strongly supported by the city administration, aims to transform from high entertainment for international tourists into a cultural challenge. We seek a second season that is more experimental, innovative, and courageous, designed to appeal to audiences accustomed to the rich offerings of international capitals. ‘MIMMA’ is perfect for this, combining a fresh, nearly unprecedented narrative with a musical language that intersects various genres and influences.”
Teatro Verdi is not merely hosting a performance but engaging in a cultural dialogue that highlights Trieste’s historic ties to the Anglo-American world and its ongoing role as a haven for literary and artistic exiles. The venue, a jewel of 18th-century architecture, will provide a fitting backdrop for this semi-staged production, allowing audiences to fully appreciate the intricate score and emotional depth of “MIMMA.”
Tickets for “MIMMA” range from 20 to 50 euros, with special discounts available for those purchasing combined tickets for other notable performances like “Turandot” and “Carmina Burana.” The Teatro Verdi Box Office is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 9 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday, 10 AM to 1 PM, as well as an hour before each show. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.teatroverdi-trieste.com or contact the box office at boxoffice@teatroverdi-trieste.com.
As Trieste continues to embrace its rich, multicultural past and vibrant cultural present, “MIMMA” promises to be a highlight of the season, offering audiences a deeply moving and musically rich experience that transcends traditional boundaries.
