September 21 – November 26, 2026
The workshop of imagination
Curatorial Project
The Workshop of Imagination reveals the extraordinary creative dialogue between some of the most influential artists of the twentieth century and the historic workshops of the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
Through works associated with Giorgio de Chirico, Pablo Picasso, Renato Guttuso, Arnaldo Pomodoro, Danilo Donati, Mariano Fortuny and Caramba, the exhibition explores the relationship between artistic vision and the craftsmanship of the theatre’s artisans, who transform imagination into theatrical reality.
The exhibition also explores the concept of memory as a living heritage through a section dedicated to Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca. Historical sketches and original costume designs associated with the opera’s 1900 premiere are presented alongside photographs documenting the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma’s 2015 reconstruction of the original production.
The section also features a reconstruction of Tosca’s costume by Anna Biagiotti, historic costume designer at the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, demonstrating how historical research and traditional craftsmanship bring theatrical heritage back to life.
A photographic gallery dedicated to the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma’s workshops offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on the creation of theatrical productions. Through images documenting the work of set painters, costume makers and other skilled artisans, visitors discover the complex creative processes that transform artistic concepts into stage productions.
The Workshop of Imagination celebrates the encounter between artistic creativity, collective craftsmanship and cultural memory, revealing the extraordinary work that takes place beyond the stage.
Explore the exhibition
Discover the stories behind the exhibition through historical documents, artistic collaborations and insights into the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Workshop of the Opera Theatre of Rome.
CONCEIVED, CURATED AND PRODUCED BY
Marzia Rubcich – Curator
IN COLLABORATION WITH
Fondazione Teatro dell’Opera di Roma
WITH THE CONTRIBUTION OF
Archivio Storico Ricordi
HOSTED BY
Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Miami
OLFACTORY EXPERIENCE BY
Profumum Roma
