Theatre of Pirandello

At a glance. An authentic 19th-century jewel in the Historic Center, this theater is amazing. Did you know its painted curtain evokes the legendary Olympic athlete Esseneto and next to its entrance is the striking exhibition space of Santa Sofia Chapel? Find it on the map and read more!

Good to know. Next to the church of San Domenico lies the ex Dominican Convent which now houses the municipality of Agrigento and gives direct access to the Theatre of Pirandello within. The theatre is a rare and beautiful gem which dates back to the late 19^th century: its acoustics are very much appreciated, as also its architectural beauty and sumptuous ornamentation. The theatre is named after the local playwright, Luigi Pirandello. Awarded the Nobel Prize in 1934, his genius definitively consecrated Pirandello’s theatre and work as one of the greatest artistic revolutions of the twentieth century, capable of shattering the rules of traditional dramaturgy. For those who are interested, the Luigi Pirandello House Museum located in contrada Caos at just a few kilometres from Agrigento houses a collection of original manuscripts, photographs and other personal items belonging to the famous author.

In the foyer of the theatre several memorial plaques and statues of Pirandello and other local notables are exhibited. On entering the theatre you will be marvelled by its spacious beauty: three tiers of balconies disposed in a semicircle guarantee a prefect view of the stage from all angles. The ceiling and the facades of the balconies are richly decorated with frescoes.

Give special attention to the stage curtain depicting  Esseneto, a legendary 6^th century athlete from Akragas, returning home after his victory at the Olympic games. Do not miss the “Santa Sofia Chapel” adjacent to the theater’s foyer: a striking exhibition space that periodically hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. This space, which overlooks the cloister of the former Dominican convent, was perhaps part of an ancient small church adjacent to the monastery and later incorporated into it. In any case, prior to the construction of the Luigi Pirandello Theater, this space effectively served as the city’s very first small theater.