Italian live arts go digital during lockdown, future uncertain

During Italy's total lockdown, the live arts sector has embraced digital communication as a survival strategy. The Teatro di Roma launched an online schedule with readings, tutorials, and talks. Triennale Milano offers daily Instagram live streams called 'Decameron' where artists from various fields narrate or develop personal stories on a theme. Festival Oriente Occidente provides lessons with great masters and cultural podcasts. Romaeuropa explores archival material from past editions with video and radio interviews. Piccolo Teatro di Milano activated PiccoloTV, featuring over forty videos of significant past performances. While participation is high, the question remains: what will happen after quarantine? The article argues that digitalization may become permanent due to new habits formed during the health emergency. Social distancing norms will reshape theater spaces and content. A Facebook debate proposed a dedicated streaming platform for theater performances, similar to film purchases. However, the essence of live art—its unpredictability and real-time exchange—cannot be replicated by fixed video. The author suggests strengthening digital promotion to engage broader audiences without replacing live experience. The crisis has highlighted artists' core need to communicate, and the momentum should be used to rebuild the contemporary arts environment with stronger dialogue and collaboration.