Petranuradanza's 'Sciara' Blends Sicilian Myth and Migrant Critique

Choreographers Salvatore Romania and Laura Odierna debuted 'Sciara' at Scenario Pubblico in Catania, produced by A.C. Megakles Ballet. The performance draws on Sicilian mythology, including Prometheus, the Trinacria symbol, and the legend of Colapesce, while incorporating a pointed critique of anti-immigrant rhetoric. A dancer delivers an ironic invective based on U.S. immigration laws at Ellis Island, warning against 'rats coming from the sea,' then reclaims his freedom. The work features live percussion by Alessandro Borgia, flutes and sax by Carlo Cattano, and electronic music by Salvo Amore. Masks inspired by Holy Week traditions in a small Messina town are used. Dancers include Claudia Bertuccelli, Valeria Ferrante, Francesco Bax, and Alessandro Sollima. The piece is structured in four tableaux and explores ancestral Sicilian gestures documented by Giuseppe Pitrè.