Eleonora Duse's centenary marked by new music for her only film 'Cenere'

A century after her death, Eleonora Duse is celebrated with a new musical score for her sole film 'Cenere' (1916), composed by Marcello Allulli and Giovanni Ceccarelli. The score premiered at the XV edition of the Festival di Cinemapoesia Versi di Luce in Modica and Gela. Duse, a revolutionary Italian actress, retired from stage in 1909 at age 50, then made 'Cenere' based on Grazia Deledda's novel, with Febo Mari as co-star and director. The film, produced by Ambrosio of Turin, was released in March 1917 but failed commercially due to poor distribution and World War I. Duse died in Pittsburgh on April 21, 1924, during a US tour. The composers divided themes: Allulli wrote for the son and the final 'Cenere' theme, Ceccarelli for the mother and father, with an Irish melody for Margherita. They blend composed and improvised sections, creating a unique live experience each screening.