by InTrieste
On December 21, the Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia, known locally as “Il Rossetti,” marked its 70th anniversary with the launch of a commemorative book, “Dal Vivo: I settant’anni del Rossetti – Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia”. The volume, published by Electa and curated by Paolo Quazzolo, offers an in-depth look at the storied institution that has shaped the cultural fabric of Trieste and the Friuli Venezia Giulia region since 1954.
The book was unveiled at a public event in the Politeama Rossetti, the grand Art Nouveau theater that serves as the Teatro Stabile’s home. Moderated by journalist Pietro Spirito, the presentation featured Quazzolo and Roberto Morelli, who penned the book’s introduction.
As attendees filled the theater’s foyer, Morelli set the stage with a broad historical overview and an interview with Francesco Mario Granbassi, the theater’s current president. Quazzolo followed, recounting the highlights of the theater’s journey over seven decades. The narrative spans its artistic achievements, its evolution through Italy’s shifting cultural and political landscapes, and the behind-the-scenes efforts of directors, actors, and technical crews.
A Legacy of Visionary Leadership
Over the years, the Teatro Stabile has been helmed by six directors, each leaving a distinct mark:
- Sergio D’Osmo, who led the theater for 35 years, laying its foundations.
- Furio Bordon, who diversified the theater’s programming.
- Mimma Gallina, the first woman to direct an Italian Teatro Stabile.
- Antonio Calenda, who introduced a new era of artistic rigor during his nearly 20-year tenure.
- Franco Però, who faced the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Paolo Valerio, the current director, whose vision embraces inclusivity and innovation.
The book dedicates space to over 50 landmark productions, including a recent adaptation of Italo Svevo’s La coscienza di Zeno, directed by Valerio and starring Alessandro Haber. The production, which received acclaim across Italy, exemplifies the theater’s ability to connect local heritage with national audiences.
A Cultural Powerhouse
Since its founding, the Teatro Stabile has produced 650 original works, ranging from grand spectacles to experimental site-specific performances. Its repertoire spans classics and contemporary dramas, delighting audiences of all ages. The theater has also hosted over 2,500 events, from concerts and dance performances to operettas and Broadway-caliber musicals.
In recent years, under the stewardship of Stefano Curti, the Politeama Rossetti has emerged as an international hub for musical theater. Blockbusters like The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables: The Arena Musical Spectacular have drawn audiences from across Europe, reinforcing Trieste’s reputation as a cultural crossroads.
Theater in the Time of COVID
Reflecting on the pandemic’s impact, Quazzolo observed, “There was a moment when it seemed theater might not recover, that audiences would hesitate to return. But we’ve seen the opposite. Politeama Rossetti is once again alive with people, reminding us of the unique, irreplaceable power of live performance.”
Looking Ahead
While the volume celebrates the past, it also underscores the Teatro Stabile’s commitment to the future. With its mission to engage increasingly diverse audiences, the theater continues to balance its dual role as both a cultural institution and an entertainment venue.
The book’s publication is part of “1954-2024: Trieste, Italy, the Teatro Stabile”, a project recognized by Italy’s Ministry of Culture and supported by the Friuli Venezia Giulia regional government.
Interview: Serena Tonel, deputy mayor with special delegation for theaters
