Modena, Italy – The Teatro Storchi is set to host a compelling theatrical adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s seminal 1928 novel, Orlando, beginning February 26th, 2026. The production, directed by Andrea De Rosa and featuring a dramaturgical adaptation by Fabrizio Sinisi based on the new translation by Nadia Fusini, promises a poetic exploration of identity, gender, and the fluidity of time. At the heart of this production is Anna Della Rosa, who embodies the enigmatic character of Orlando, a figure who transcends centuries and societal norms. This adaptation of Orlando isn’t merely a retelling of a literary classic; it’s a timely reflection on themes of self-discovery and the courage to defy convention, resonating powerfully with contemporary audiences.
Woolf’s Orlando, often described as a “biography,” charts the life of a nobleman who lives for over three centuries, remarkably transitioning from male to female midway through the narrative. The novel is deeply intertwined with Woolf’s own life and her passionate relationship with Vita Sackville-West, a British author and garden designer. The theatrical adaptation aims to capture this layered complexity, presenting a story that is both historically rich and intensely personal. The production delves into the core of Woolf’s work, exploring the protagonist’s journey through time, gender, and the very essence of being. The play promises to be a visually and emotionally captivating experience, utilizing sound, lighting, and minimal costume changes to convey Orlando’s transformative journey.
Anna Della Rosa, a celebrated actress who received the Premio ANCT 2024 for her work in Erodiàs and Mater Strangosciàs, spoke of her initial reaction to being offered the role of Orlando as one of pure joy. She described rereading the novel after a decade and feeling a renewed connection to its themes. Della Rosa emphasized the production’s focus on the power of language, noting that the character’s transformation is conveyed through subtle shifts in costume and, most importantly, through the nuanced delivery of the text. “It is the word that changes the world,” she stated, highlighting the central role of performance in bringing Woolf’s vision to life. The production aims to showcase the strength of the spoken word and its ability to shape identity and perception.
A Literary Love Letter Brought to Life
Orlando has long been celebrated as a groundbreaking work of literature, lauded for its innovative narrative structure and its exploration of gender identity. Virginia Woolf began writing Orlando in 1927, and it was published in 1928 by Hogarth Press, the publishing house she co-founded with her husband, Leonard Woolf. Britannica details the novel’s unique blend of biography, fantasy, and social commentary. The novel is often described as a “love letter” to Vita Sackville-West, a sentiment echoed by those involved in the theatrical adaptation. The correspondence between Woolf and Sackville-West provides a crucial context for understanding the novel’s themes and its deeply personal origins. The play seeks to honor this intimate connection, weaving excerpts from their letters into the dramatization.
The adaptation, according to those involved, doesn’t shy away from the novel’s exploration of desire and freedom. Woolf’s work champions the pursuit of pleasure and the rejection of societal constraints, advocating for a life lived authentically and without apology. The production aims to capture this spirit of liberation, presenting Orlando as a timeless anthem for self-expression. The play’s exploration of desire is particularly relevant in contemporary discussions surrounding gender identity and sexual orientation, making it a work that continues to resonate with audiences today. Woolf’s famous quote, “Live in fragments no longer,” encapsulates the novel’s call for wholeness and self-acceptance.
The Storchi Theatre and Community Engagement
The Teatro Storchi in Modena, a significant cultural venue in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, will be the stage for this ambitious production. Emilia Romagna Teatro ERT, the organization overseeing the Teatro Storchi, has a long history of presenting innovative and thought-provoking theatrical works. The theatre’s commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement makes it an ideal venue for this adaptation of Orlando. Performances are scheduled from February 26th to March 1st, 2026, with varying showtimes to accommodate different audiences. Tickets are available for purchase starting at €11.22.
Beyond the performances themselves, the Teatro Storchi is hosting a series of events to enhance the audience’s understanding and appreciation of Woolf’s work. On Friday, February 27th, at 5:30 PM, a discussion with the production company will be held at the Biblioteca Delfini conference room, moderated by Rita Monticelli, a professor of English Literature, Gender Studies, and Cultural History at the University of Bologna. Cristina Gamberi from the Department of Arts at the University of Bologna will also participate in the discussion. This event provides a unique opportunity for theatregoers to engage with the creative team and delve deeper into the themes and ideas explored in the play. Further conversations are planned for Sunday, March 1st, as part of the “CONVERSADO DI TEATRO” series.
Anna Della Rosa on Embodying Orlando
Della Rosa’s approach to portraying Orlando is rooted in a deep understanding of the character’s complexity and fluidity. She emphasizes the importance of conveying Orlando’s transformation not through elaborate costume changes, but through subtle shifts in physicality and vocal delivery. “My identity passes from man to woman only with small changes of costume, a belt or a hat,” she explained. This minimalist approach underscores the idea that identity is not solely defined by external appearances, but by internal experience and self-perception. The actress also highlights the power of the word, emphasizing that the play’s success hinges on the audience’s ability to be captivated by the narrative and to connect with Orlando’s journey on an emotional level.
The production’s creative team has carefully considered how to translate Woolf’s intricate prose into a visually and emotionally compelling theatrical experience. The use of sound, lighting, and staging is designed to create a dynamic and immersive environment that enhances the storytelling. The adaptation also incorporates elements from the correspondence between Woolf and Sackville-West, adding another layer of intimacy and emotional resonance to the production. The goal is to create a performance that is both faithful to the spirit of the novel and accessible to a contemporary audience.
The Enduring Legacy of Virginia Woolf
Virginia Woolf remains one of the most important and influential writers of the 20th century. Born in 1882, Woolf was a pioneer of modernist literature, known for her experimental narrative techniques and her profound exploration of consciousness. Her novels, including Mrs. Dalloway, To the Lighthouse, and Orlando, continue to be widely read and studied today. The Poetry Foundation provides a comprehensive overview of her life and work. Woolf’s work often challenged conventional social norms and explored themes of gender, sexuality, and mental health. Her innovative writing style and her unflinching honesty have inspired generations of writers and artists.
The theatrical adaptation of Orlando at the Teatro Storchi is a testament to the enduring power of Woolf’s work. It is a reminder that her themes of identity, freedom, and the search for meaning continue to resonate with audiences today. The production offers a unique opportunity to experience Orlando in a new and dynamic way, bringing Woolf’s vision to life on the stage. The production’s commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement promises to make it a memorable event for theatregoers in Modena and beyond.
The final performance of Orlando is scheduled for March 1st, 2026, at 4:00 PM at the Teatro Storchi. For those interested in attending, tickets can be purchased online through Vivaticket or at the Teatro Storchi box office. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences with the production in the comments below.