As part of the cultural celebrations marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Italy, the critically acclaimed Italian musical "The Divine Comedy" made a spectacular debut in Beijing. From July 31 to August 3, the production captivated audiences at Century Theater with a stunning reinterpretation of Dante Alighieri's literary masterpiece.

Simultaneously, the China–Italy Forum on Civilizational Dialogue brought together cultural and academic leaders from both nations, showcasing the power of art to transcend time and borders.

A Timeless Epic Reimagined for the Modern Stage

Produced by Italy's MIC and exclusively introduced to China by WeDo Opera, "The Divine Comedy" blends classical opera with rock and pop elements, giving Dante's 14th-century vision a bold contemporary voice. Co-produced by China Arts and Entertainment Group and Poly Culture Group, the show was supported by Beijing Four Seas Cultural Communication and Poly Theater Management.

The musical unfolds in three acts—Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso—each characterized by a distinct musical language. The Inferno is driven by explosive rock rhythms and industrial soundscapes that portray the chaos and torment of Dante's hell. In Purgatorio, lyrical jazz and classical strings guide the audience through reflection and redemption. Finally, Paradiso offers a celestial finale, featuring soaring soprano vocals and a glowing LED dome that transforms the theater into a sacred realm of light and sound.

A Theatrical and Emotional Journey

Unlike traditional sets, the production utilizes cutting-edge 3D projections and mechanical staging to create a dynamic, immersive environment. From the depths of hell to the radiance of paradise, each scene unfolds with visual grandeur, enabling the audience to journey alongside Dante through the spiritual realms.

Over 200 meticulously handcrafted costumes blend medieval elegance with mythical fantasy, designed to reflect historical authenticity and artistic imagination. Rich embroidery, handcrafted beadwork, and unique fabrics bring each character to life with texture and dimension.

With a cast of seasoned musical actors, the Beijing leg of the tour delivered powerful performances that captivated more than a thousand audience members on opening night. Distinguished guests included diplomats, academics, and cultural figures, who praised the show's innovative fusion of tradition and modernity, and its contribution to China–Italy cultural exchange.

The performance concluded with a bilingual rendition of a classic song performed by the Poly WeDo Children's Choir and the Italian cast, merging angelic voices with operatic passion and symbolizing the cultural harmony between East and West.

Civilizational Dialogue Forum: Envisioning Future Cooperation

Running alongside the musical, the China–Italy Forum on Cultural and Civilizational Dialogue gathered thought leaders under the theme of "Beauty in Harmony." Co-hosted by China Arts and Entertainment Group, the Embassy of Italy in China, the Charhar Institute, and other cultural institutions, the forum explored new avenues for cultural cooperation, civilizational understanding, and artistic innovation.

Key speakers included Federico Roberto Antonelli, Cultural Counsellor at the Italian Embassy; Zhang Wentao, Secretary-General of the China Academy of International Culture; Professor Tian Qing, noted musicologist; and Chen Peng, Deputy Director of the China International Youth Exchange Center. Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ambassador Massimo Ambrosetti both delivered video addresses, emphasizing the vital role of cultural diplomacy in deepening bilateral relations.

The forum also featured live performances by Italian cast members, violin prodigy Wu Yusen, and pianist Zhao Wenyuan, offering musical tributes that echoed the spirit of cross-cultural dialogue.

Following its successful Beijing premiere, The Divine Comedy will embark on a national tour across Guangzhou, Xiamen, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Hangzhou—continuing to light up the stage and build bridges between Chinese and Italian cultures.