by InTrieste
In a city steeped in history and culture, the Rossetti theater is marking a milestone: its 70th anniversary. This December, the renowned institution honors seven decades of artistic innovation and commitment to the performing arts with a series of celebratory events, including the launch of a commemorative book and a birthday toast open to the public.
On December 21, at 11:30 a.m., the Teatro Stabile will present the book “Live: The Seventy Years of Rossetti – Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia,” published by Electa, at the Politeama Rossetti. Edited by Paolo Quazzolo and featuring an introduction by Roberto Morelli, the book chronicles the rich history of this cultural cornerstone. The event will be moderated by journalist Pietro Spirito.
The celebration continues on December 22, the exact anniversary of the theater’s debut production, Carlo Goldoni’s “La donna di garbo,” which premiered on this date in 1954. Seven decades later, the Politeama Rossetti will host the final performance of George Orwell’s “1984,” a guest production that has garnered critical acclaim. Meanwhile, the Teatro Stabile’s own production of Italo Svevo’s “La coscienza di Zeno,” directed by Artistic Director Paolo Valerio and starring Alessandro Haber, will represent Trieste’s cultural excellence at the Teatro Biondo in Palermo.
Following the December 22 performance of “1984,” the theater will invite its audience to join a toast with the actors and staff. In a gesture of community spirit, the Teatro Stabile is extending a special invitation to individuals born in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region on December 22, 1954—the same day the theater first raised its curtain. Those sharing this landmark birthday can write to ilaria.lucari@ilrossetti.it to receive two complimentary tickets to the performance and join the post-show festivities, which include a cake-cutting ceremony.
The anniversary celebrations are part of the broader project “1954-2024: Trieste, Italy, the Teatro Stabile,” one of three special initiatives selected by Italy’s Ministry of Culture. Supported by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Regional Department of Culture, the project reflects the theater’s enduring mission: to foster creativity and artistic excellence.
“Seventy years of theater means seventy years of emotions, challenges, and applause,” said Artistic Director Paolo Valerio. “This anniversary is a testament to our deep connection with the community and our unwavering commitment to the performing arts.”
The Teatro Stabile’s history is interwoven with that of Trieste itself. From its humble beginnings to its current role as a hub of cultural and artistic exchange, the institution has consistently pushed the boundaries of theatrical expression. Its 70th anniversary season promises to uphold this legacy, featuring a diverse array of national and international productions.
For Trieste, the Teatro Stabile is more than just a theater; it is a symbol of resilience and creativity, a stage where the city’s rich heritage and dynamic present meet. As the curtain rises on this landmark year, the Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia remains firmly committed to its founding vision: bringing stories to life and sharing them with the world.