by InTrieste
In a dazzling new production, “Anastasia: The Musical” is set to premiere in Trieste, promising to transport audiences back to the opulent world of Imperial Russia. Presented by the producers of “The Phantom of the Opera” and directed by Federico Bellone, the musical will debut at the Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia from December 11 to 15, 2024. Tickets go on sale Thursday, June 13.
The musical, which features music by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty and a book by Terrence McNally, draws inspiration from the beloved 1997 animated film and the Oscar-winning 1957 movie starring Ingrid Bergman. It tells the poignant story of Anastasia, the youngest daughter of the Russian Tsar Nicholas II, through the emotive recollections of her grandmother.
“There was a time, not many years ago, when we lived in an enchanted world of elegant palaces and grand parties,” begins the narration in the animated classic. “The year was 1916 and my son Nicholas was the Tsar of all the Russias. We were celebrating the three-hundredth anniversary of our family’s ascension to the throne, and that night no star was brighter than our sweet Anastasia, my youngest granddaughter.” This tender remembrance sets the tone for a musical journey steeped in history, nostalgia, and emotion.
Federico Bellone, who previously helmed the triumphant “Phantom of the Opera” in Trieste last July, returns to bring “Anastasia” to life. His adaptation is aimed at a broad audience, blending regal settings, dreamlike palaces, and a deeply nostalgic empathy.
“The musical ‘Anastasia’ is a dream for me,” Bellone remarked. “We, the children of the Eighties, grew up during the Disney renaissance, with animated films like ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ ‘The Little Mermaid,’ and ‘Aladdin.’ The Russian grand duchess holds a special place among these magical memories, from a time not too long ago when sunsets seemed more beautiful, melodies more stirring, and quality much higher.”
The Italian translation of the musical will stay true to the film, thanks to the expertise of Franco Travaglio, a renowned national adapter. Broadway Italia, in collaboration with DuePunti Eventi, brings international production standards to Italy, comparable to London’s West End. Following the success of their recent “Phantom of the Opera” production, Broadway Italia will showcase the tale of a “princess” in search of herself, featuring top Italian performers, grand 19th-century-style sets, imperial costumes, dramatic lighting, and special effects, including a theatrical snowstorm and dancing ghosts.
With a live orchestra and memorable songs such as “Once Upon a December” and “Journey to the Past” — popularized in Italy by the singer Tosca — the musical promises to enchant audiences. It will be staged at Politeama Rossetti in Trieste (Sala Assicurazioni Generali).
“Anastasia” offers a voyage back to a time of splendor, mystery, and passion. Audiences will be immersed in the rich atmosphere of Imperial Russia, following the adventures of Anya, a young woman who might be the Grand Duchess Anastasia, the sole survivor of the Romanov family’s tragic end. The production promises to captivate with its political intrigues, unexpected twists, and stunning musical performances, all enhanced by magnificent sets, costumes, and choreography.
Tickets will be available starting Thursday, June 13, at the Politeama Rossetti Box Office and through the usual Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia channels. For more information, visit www.ilrossetti.vivaticket.it or call 040.3593511.
