Virginia Woolf’s ‘Orlando’ at the Piccolo Teatro: A Timeless Exploration of Identity
From February 17th to 22nd, 2026, the Piccolo Teatro Studio Melato in Milan will host a compelling adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s groundbreaking novel, Orlando. Directed by Andrea De Rosa and starring Anna Della Rosa, this production promises a fresh look at a story that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Deconstructing Gender and Time
Orlando, originally published in 1928, is celebrated for its playful exploration of gender, identity, and the fluidity of time. The narrative follows the titular character, who lives for centuries and remarkably transitions from male to female midway through the story. This theatrical adaptation, with dramaturgy by Fabrizio Sinisi, integrates a fresh translation of the novel by Nadia Fusini alongside excerpts from Woolf’s letters to Vita Sackville-West, offering a deeper understanding of the inspiration behind this literary masterpiece.
The Woolf-Sackville-West Connection
The production highlights the intimate relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West, revealing how their connection fueled the creation of Orlando. Sinisi describes the novel as “the most daring love letter in history,” a testament to the profound impact their relationship had on both their lives and their perform. The adaptation draws upon their correspondence, published as Scrivi sempre a mezzanotte (Donzelli Editore), to illuminate this dynamic.
A Modern Take on a Classic
Andrea De Rosa’s direction emphasizes the enduring relevance of Orlando’s themes. He suggests that “identity is a ghost,” and the play invites audiences to question the constraints imposed by societal norms and expectations. The production aims to transcend conventional boundaries of gender and identity, encouraging viewers to consider the constructed nature of these categories.
Production Details
The production features set design by Giuseppe Stellato, lighting by Pasquale Mari, sound design by G.U.P. Alcaro, and costumes by Ilaria Ariemme. Pëtr Il’ič Čajkovskij’s Symphony No. 6, Pathetic, provides the musical backdrop. Performances will be held at the Piccolo Teatro Studio Melato (Via Rivoli 6 – M2 Lanza) with showtimes varying between 7:30 PM and 4:00 PM. The play runs for one hour without an intermission.
Ticket Information and Accessibility
Tickets are priced at 33 euros for platea seating and 26 euros for balconata seating. Reservations can be made by calling 02.21126116 or visiting www.piccoloteatro.org.
FAQ
Q: What are the performance dates?
A: February 17th to 22nd, 2026.
Q: Where is the Piccolo Teatro Studio Melato located?
A: Via Rivoli 6, Milan (M2 Lanza metro stop).
Q: How long is the performance?
A: 1 hour without an intermission.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Platea: 33 euros, Balconata: 26 euros.
Q: Where can I purchase tickets?
A: By phone at 02.21126116 or online at www.piccoloteatro.org.
Pro Tip: Consider booking your tickets in advance, especially for weekend performances, to secure your preferred seating.
Did you know? Virginia Woolf originally conceived of Orlando as a playful tribute to Vita Sackville-West, initially intending it to be a biographical sketch. It evolved into a much more ambitious and experimental work.
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