Romanzo Criminale adapted into opera at Maggio Musicale Fiorentino

The acclaimed novel “Romanzo Criminale” is being adapted into an opera, premiering at the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino on October 23. The production features music by Oscar-winning composer Nicola Piovani and a libretto written by the original novelist, Giancarlo De Cataldo.

The opera explores the brutal saga of four disadvantaged youths attempting to seize control of Rome’s underworld, a story rooted in the history of the Banda della Magliana crime gang. Following its run in Florence through October 31, the production is scheduled to be performed in Rome at the Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone in 2027.

Co-produced by the Fondazione del Maggio and the Fondazione Musica per Roma, the premiere will be broadcast on Rai 3 via Rai Cultura on the evening of October 23. The production is directed by Massimo Popolizio.