Description:
Teatro La Ribalta is a professional theatre group comprised of artists with and without disabilities. Founded by actors Michele Fiocchi and Antonio Viganò in 2013, the association evolved into the cooperative society known as Accademia Arte della Diversità – Teatro La Ribalta. Over the years, this collaboration has given rise to a visually captivating art project, encapsulated in its nickname “Kunst der Vielfalt” (“Art of Diversity”). It stands as a distinctive social project in Italy dedicated to combating social exclusion by providing participants with a social and professional identity.
In 2009, the ensemble established itself in Bolzano, and since January 2015, they have owned and operated a permanent venue in the city, referred to as T.RAUM. This space isn’t solely utilized by the actors and actresses of Teatro La Ribalta for their daily work; it also welcomes other initiatives and serves as a hub for encounters, discussions, and professional development. By doing so, it promotes a broad spectrum of artistic activities and aims to counteract any potential segregation of actors and actresses with disabilities, ensuring the continuation of their cultural inclusion project.
The theatre ensemble’s performances tackle significant social themes and are characterized by a sophisticated aesthetic. Moreover, their activities encompass organizing events, theatre series, and collaborations with local theatres and public institutions. For instance, Teatro La Ribalta played a pivotal role in establishing Circuiti Teatrali Lombardi (formerly Altri Percorsi) and participated in its artistic direction. Additionally, they initiated theatre series for young people like “Posto Unico” and the “Festival Campsirago Teatro,” which serve as meeting places where genres blend, and new artistic practices are tested. La Ribalta also champions the theatre series “Arte della Diversità” and co-produces events with the Associazioni Theatraki, including workshops for children. Since 2010, in collaboration with Lebenshilfe Südtirol and with support from the Cultural Department of the City of Bolzano, Teatro La Ribalta has organized the “Corpi eretici - häretische Körper” theatre series, focusing on human diversity and diverse perspectives.
The ensemble has been touring Italy and Europe for several years, resulting in collaborations with theatres both in Italy and abroad, such as the French theatre ensemble L’Oiseau Mouche. For a decade, the group was affiliated with Théâtre Le Grand Bleu in Lille, which co-produced their plays between 1995 and 2006. Eminent theatre and art professionals, along with choreographers, contribute to the production of performances and training. Their work has garnered awards and national guest performances, exemplified by the Ubu Special Prize they received in 2018 for outstanding artistic creativity and their treatment of the themes of marginal groups and disability. The Ubu Prize represents the highest recognition in the field of theatre and dance in Italy.
