Ciclo di Spettacoli Classici al Teatro Olimpico
The great texts of classical theatre in Palladio's theatre
About Classici Olimpico
Palladio's Theatre Becomes a Stage
The Ciclo di Spettacoli Classici al Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza, Veneto, is one of the country's oldest and most famous theatre festivals. It takes place in the Teatro Olimpico, a masterpiece by Andrea Palladio completed by Vincenzo Scamozzi, the world's oldest surviving roofed theatre and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its extraordinary permanent stage set, with the perspective of the streets of Thebes, provides an irreplaceable backdrop for every performance.
Between Greek Tragedy and Contemporary Reinterpretations
The programme focuses on the great texts of classical theatre—Greek tragedies and myths, primarily ancient epics and dramas—presented in productions that blend fidelity to tradition with a contemporary outlook. Alongside the main productions at the Teatro Olimpico, the festival brings shows to other symbolic city locations, such as the Basilica Palladiana, and complements theatre with dance, talks, and training courses.
A Festival that Engages with the City
In addition to evening performances, the programme includes projects dedicated to local artists, activities for families, masterclasses, and public discussions. The Ciclo dei Classici thus confirms Vicenza as the capital of classical theatre, where the Palladian heritage becomes a living space for creation and audience engagement.
Classici Olimpico — edition 2026
The 79th Ciclo di Spettacoli Classici al Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza takes place from September 13 to October 18, 2026. For the first time, the artistic direction is entrusted to a local entity, Stivalaccio Teatro, curated by Federico Corona. The programme alternates major Greek tragedies, contemporary reinterpretations, dance, world premieres, and site-specific performances, spread across the Teatro Olimpico, the Basilica Palladiana, and other city locations, accompanied by public talks, family activities, and training courses.
Programme Classici Olimpico 2026
Performances at the Teatro Olimpico
- September 18–19 — Orestea, Parte prima, directed by Carmelo Rifici (world premiere)
- September 22–23 — Verso Itaca, choreography by Hervé Koubi (dance, world premiere)
- September 26–27 — Alcesti by Euripides, directed by Filippo Dini
- September 30 – October 1 — Bord de Mer, directed by Muriel Mayette-Holtz (national premiere)
- October 7–8 — Eumenidi, tutta, tutta del padre io sono, directed by Serena Sinigaglia (world premiere)
- October 17–18 — Amore e Tirannia, Familie Flöz (Michael Vogel)
Site-specific performances
- October 14 — Metamorfosi by Ovid, directed by Andrea Baracco, at the Basilica Palladiana
- 'Polis' projects with local companies (La Piccionaia, Theama Teatro, Naturalis Labor) at the Basilica Palladiana
Training and talks
- Familie Flöz Masterclass, 'Technē' courses, and 'Agorá' public talks at the Odeo of the Teatro Olimpico
Full programme and cast on the website classiciolimpicovicenza.it.
Highlights Classici Olimpico 2026
Prices Classici Olimpico 2026
Practical information — Classici Olimpico
Where
Teatro Olimpico, Piazza Matteotti 11, Vicenza. Some site-specific performances are held at the Basilica Palladiana and other locations in the historic centre.
Tickets
Tickets are on sale on the official website and at the box office of the Teatro Comunale di Vicenza, with concessions for under-30s and schools.
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Where does it take place — Classici Olimpico
Teatro Olimpico
Piazza Matteotti 11, 36100 Vicenza