Aterballetto's 'Alla ricerca della meraviglia' Project Engages Children Through Contemporary Dance

The National Choreographic Center Aterballetto in Reggio Emilia launched an innovative project titled 'Alla ricerca della meraviglia' in January 2026, aimed at exploring childhood perspectives through contemporary dance. Directed by Gigi Cristoforetti, the initiative involves three choreographers—Fernando Melo, Jacopo Jenna, and Francesco Marilungo—who each developed distinct studies during residencies with Aterballetto dancers. These works will be presented on May 8, 2026, at the Festival Internazionale Kids in Reggio Emilia, with the goal of selecting one for a full production debuting at the Colpi di Scena festival in Forlì from June 23–25, 2026. Melo's piece, 'Il mondo dei quasi,' features dancers Matilde Di Ciolo and Matteo Capetola in a silent short film exploring human relationships. Jenna's work, inspired by Gianni Rodari's 'Grammatica della fantasia,' incorporates video and AI-generated voices, performed by Alessia Giacomelli and Kiran Gezels. Marilungo's 'Anninnìa' uses traditional lullabies and colorful plush toys, with scenography by Luca Luchetti, also performed by Giacomelli and Gezels. The project reflects Aterballetto's broader commitment to investigating dance's applications beyond traditional performances, such as the acclaimed 'Notte Morricone' by Marcos Morau. Cristoforetti describes the endeavor as an artistic, productive, and cultural investment in childhood as a viewpoint for perceptual freedom.