Taormina Arte Festival unveils new shows at the Ancient Theatre of Taormina

The International Taormina Arte Festival 2026 opened its theatre section on the morning of 1 August with the world premiere of “Svegliare il giorno”. The production, created by the Fondazione Taormina Arte Sicilia, featured Ambra Angiolini as both playwright and performer, with texts by poet Chandra Livia Candiani set to music by Franco Battiato and performed by the Orchestra a Plettro Città di Taormina. Staged in the historic Ancient Theatre, the show turned the sunrise into a collective experience of poetry, music and landscape.

A second original work, “Blu”, is scheduled for 17 September at the same venue. The performance blends theatre, live music and scientific insight to explore the Mediterranean as the cradle of civilization and a barometer of climate change. It stars actor‑director Edoardo Leo, climatologist Giulio Boccaletti and multi‑instrumentalist Giovanna Famulari, and is part of the Planetaria platform created by Stefano Accorsi and Filippo Gentili. Both productions highlight the festival’s focus on artistic innovation and environmental awareness.