Rome has been Europe’s enduring and enduring powerhouse of art and culture since the dawn of modern civilization. But since 1980, the Romaeuropa Festival has sought to introduce a flavor of contemporary design to Rome through the performing arts, music, dance and theatre.
What is?
Now established as one of the world’s biggest art events, the Romaeuropa Festival attracts a multitude of acts from a wide range of media to showcase their works over two autumn months between September and November each year. In archaic halls and theaters of the sprawling ancient city, tourists experiencing the delights of The Pantheon can enter a show at one of the many participating venues, such as the Teatro Olimpico and the Auditorium Parco de la Musica, showcasing a world turned upside down. of contemporary design in Rome.
New meets old
Lovers of modern art and fresh, progressive ideas could almost forget the historical wonders and romance that await them outside. Although this is unlikely considering that the main reason to visit this wonderful old city is the old buildings and works of art. However, it goes to show how popular and strong the festival’s appeal is, managing to survive so long in a place where contemporary art is not the first thing that comes to mind.
explore the city
Festival visitors can stroll from their accommodation and, in an instant, choose between the classic ancient delights of the city (the galleries, museums, chapels, the Colosseum and the Pantheon) or enjoy more contemporary design in Rome and experience a totally different side to the 2,000-year-old city. There are influences from around the world featuring famous acts, undiscovered artistic gems and never-before-seen new material to excite and intrigue visitors in equal measure.
enjoy the art
At the center of the 2012 festival was the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of 20th-century postmodern composer John Cage, known for his experimental musical works, including the score “4’33.” This year the program features a wide range of exciting contemporary design in Rome and multi-media artistic performances. These include a musical theater piece called “Aliados,” which focuses on the relationship between Margaret Thatcher’s encounters with former Chilean dictator General Augusto Pinochet in the years 1998-2000. The piece aims to explore the couple’s shared memories of recent history and show how events can be altered due to the deterioration of their respective psychological conditions.
But the festival is not all modern performing art. There are classical compositions and dances representing the city’s deep-seated traditions that sit comfortably alongside post-modern operas, a refreshing version of Messiaen/Santasangre, for example.
The Italian capital has a rich culture to offer tourists year-round, but with the added injection of two months of celebrating contemporary design in Rome, there are more ways than ever to enjoy your visit.