Parma2020 seeks extension to 2021 after coronavirus shutdown

Parma, Italy's Capital of Culture for 2020, has been forced to close all events and venues due to the national health emergency caused by the coronavirus. The city, confined to the "red zone" until April 3, has seen hotel cancellations exceed 90%, including bookings for the Verdi Festival later in the year. Despite the crisis, the committee continues to work on rescheduling, hoping the second half of the year can salvage the program. Director Ezio Zani reports that the mayor of Parma, along with the mayors of Reggio Emilia and Piacenza and regional governor Bonaccini, has formally requested Culture Minister Dario Franceschini to extend the title into 2021. Franceschini is personally reviewing the legal implications. Several candidate cities for 2021 have also expressed support for a postponement due to the uncertainty. Meanwhile, some cultural activities continue online: a streaming concert by Toscanini and a live broadcast of an exhibition at Fondazione Magnani Rocca featuring Moroni's "Cavaliere in Rosa" on March 14. Zani remains optimistic, citing France's recovery after terrorist attacks as a precedent for Italy's cultural rebound.