Ágota Kristóf's 'Trilogia della città di K' adapted for the stage by Fanny & Alexander

The Piccolo Teatro di Milano, under director Claudio Longhi, has produced a theatrical adaptation of Ágota Kristóf's novel 'Trilogia della città di K.' The project was proposed by actress Federica Fracassi and developed with the Ravenna-based company Fanny & Alexander, including Chiara Lagani (adaptation) and Luigi De Angelis (direction, sets, lights, video). The novel, published in Italy in 1998, is divided into three parts: 'Il Grande quaderno,' 'La prova,' and 'La terza menzogna,' reflecting Kristóf's own experience as a refugee and the dissolution of family ties. The stage adaptation mirrors this tripartite structure, with each act using a distinct dramaturgical language. The first act presents a film-like sequence where Fracassi portrays Kristóf writing, while video screens show characters and scenes. The second act brings the novel's protagonists to life, including Lucas (played by multiple actors) and Clara (Fracassi). The third act overlays perspectives and languages, revealing the truth about twins Lucas and Klaus. De Angelis drew inspiration for the set design—a forest of rectangular screens—from Lina Bo Bardi's installation at the Museu de Arte de São Paulo. The performance employs 'eterodirezione,' a technique where actors receive lines and movements via earpieces during the show, enhancing the novel's elusive realism. The production runs until December 21, 2023, at the Teatro Studio Melato.