November 6, 2024
The journey of Ulysses to Ithaca, a timeless myth, will come back to life at the San Leonardo Theater in Viterbo on November 9 at 9pm, thanks to an extraordinary production that highlights the unprecedented human side of the Homeric hero. Ithaca foreverA theatrical adaptation of the novel of the same name by Luigi Malerba edited by Alessandra Pizzi, which brings two Italian acting icons back to the stage: Enrico Lo Verso e Paola Quattrinisupported by the pianist and composer Mirko Lodedo. The event is enriched by the patronage of the Municipality of Viterbo and the support of sponsors such as: Unindustria, SNALS, Play Energia and Sanna-Cordella Dental Practice.
The show subverts the heroic image of the traditional Odysseus, transforming him into a man marked by time and battles, who returns home tired and vulnerable. An unrecognizable man, or unrecognizable in the eyes of others? The story combines the thoughts of Ulysses and Penelope, describing a relationship full of doubts and misunderstandings, but also a strong desire to rediscover each other. As James Joyce said in 1917, “The Odyssey is the most beautiful and interesting of subjects”a universal story that emerges here in a new light.
A human myth, no longer heroic
Penelope, played by Paola Quattrini, recognizes her husband immediately, but she pretends that he doesn’t, insulted by the lies and belief games he has set up. Ulysses, played with intensity by Enrico Lo Verso, returns as an exhausted man who feels like a stranger within the walls of his home. A show to explore the drama of not recognizing yourself, as well as the diversity of perceptions and acceptance of others, even when they seem irreparably changed.
After the success of the first performance in July 2024 and its inclusion in the prestigious program of the TAU – Teatri Antichi Uniti 2024, Ithaca forever preparing to conquer the Viterbo community as well. On stage, Mirko Lodedo’s music will accompany the intense dialogue between the main characters, adding to the emotional nuances of a narrative that invites us to reflect on the fragility and complexities of human connections.
Lo Verso and Quattrini, among the most representative faces on the national art scene, are sharing the stage some twenty years after their participation together in the show A tram called Desiderio by Tennessee Williams. I Ithaca foreverthe two actors perfectly embody an intimate modern version of the legend of Ulysses and Penelope, once again demonstrating their ability to convey authentic emotions and depth of interpretation to the stage.
TICKETS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
Tickets for single shows or season tickets can be purchased at: Teatro San Leonardo ticket office, Underground and on the ArcheoAres website (eventi.archeoares.it).
For information:
San Leonardo Theatre
Viterbo, Via Cavour 9
Tel. 366 878 2880
[email protected]
Interview between Time.news Editor and Theater Expert on “Ithaca Forever”
Editor: Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today. We’re excited to discuss the upcoming production of Ithaca Forever, which reimagines the classic tale of Ulysses. To provide some insights, we have theater expert, Dr. Laura Benetti, here with us. Dr. Benetti, how does this adaptation differ from traditional portrayals of Odysseus?
Dr. Benetti: Thank you for having me! Ithaca Forever offers a fresh perspective on the character of Ulysses, or Odysseus, as we traditionally know him. Instead of the invincible hero, this adaptation presents a man shaped by his struggles—exhausted, vulnerable, and unrecognizable even to himself. It challenges the glorified image of heroism and delves into the personal pain and emotional complexities that come with returning home after a long absence.
Editor: That’s fascinating. The article mentions that Ulysses has transformed into a “man marked by time and battles.” Can you elaborate on how this change in his character impacts the story?
Dr. Benetti: Absolutely. By depicting him as weary and vulnerable, the adaptation invites an exploration of human fragility. Ulysses’ return isn’t just about triumph; it’s a moment filled with existential questions and uncertainties. This portrayal encourages audiences to reflect on their own experiences of change and growth, especially after prolonged periods of struggle or separation. It raises the question: can we ever truly return home unchanged?
Editor: And what about Penelope’s role in this adaptation? How does her perspective contribute to the narrative?
Dr. Benetti: Penelope, played by the talented Paola Quattrini, is crucial to this reimagining. She recognizes Ulysses, yet chooses to pretend she doesn’t, confronting him with the betrayal of his past deceptions. This dynamic adds depth to their relationship, reflecting themes of trust, identity, and the complexity of love. Their interaction highlights that even in the rekindling of an old flame, there are layers of hurt and misunderstanding that need reconciliation.
Editor: It sounds like a profound exploration of relationships. The music by Mirko Lodedo plays a significant role in the production too. How does music enhance the storytelling here?
Dr. Benetti: Music in theater serves as an emotional backdrop, enriching the narrative without overshadowing the dialogue. In Ithaca Forever, Lodedo’s compositions will underscore the emotional weight of the characters’ journeys. It enhances the audience’s experience, making their connection to Ulysses and Penelope’s story more visceral. Music can evoke feelings that words alone sometimes cannot convey, allowing for a deeper engagement with the characters’ internal struggles.
Editor: With its premiering on November 9 in Viterbo, how do you think the local community will react to this adaptation?
Dr. Benetti: Given the themes of homecoming and identity, I believe Ithaca Forever will resonate deeply with the audience in Viterbo. The production’s focus on the human experience rather than the heroic exploits of Ulysses makes it almost universal. Many people can relate to feelings of coming back to familiar places, yet feeling like strangers due to the changes they’ve undergone. This shared experience can foster a strong emotional connection with the performance.
Editor: Lastly, what do you hope audiences take away from this unique retelling of a classic myth?
Dr. Benetti: I hope audiences leave with a sense of empathy and understanding for their own journeys and those of others around them. Ithaca Forever invites us to reflect on the fragility of human connections and the ways we perceive ourselves and others, especially when faced with change. It’s a reminder that we are all complex beings navigating our paths, making choices that define who we become.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Benetti, for your valuable insights. We look forward to seeing Ithaca Forever bring a profound and modern perspective to this timeless tale.
