Florence opens Maggio Musicale Festival with The Death of Klinghoffer

Florence has opened the 88th edition of the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino with a new production of The Death of Klinghoffer, directed by Luca Guadagnino. The premiere took place on 19 April at the festival’s theatre, receiving strong applause from the audience.

The opera, composed by John Adams, is based on the 1985 hijacking of the cruise ship Achille Lauro hijacking by members of the Palestine Liberation Front. The incident ended with the killing of Leon Klinghoffer, a wheelchair user and American Jewish passenger.

Guadagnino, who also designed the staging, said he aimed to present the story as an exploration of human interiority rather than a political statement. The production uses a highly realistic set, recreating elements of a cruise ship, including cabins and deck spaces, to reflect the everyday setting of the events.

A rare staging in Italy

The work is considered controversial and has rarely been performed in Italy. Before this production, it had only been staged twice in the country, both in 2002. Internationally, performances have sometimes been accompanied by heightened security due to the subject matter.

For the Florence premiere, there were no reported incidents. A small demonstration in support of Palestine took place outside the theatre, focusing on differing interpretations of the historical events depicted.

Audience and guests

The opening night attracted a wide range of figures from the cultural and political worlds. Among those present were conductor Zubin Mehta, alongside musicians, composers and public officials.

Guests also included Italian singer Jovanotti and Damon Albarn, frontman of Blur, as well as fashion designer Jonathan Anderson. Representatives from local and national institutions attended the event, including Tuscany’s regional president and Florence’s mayor.

Music and cast

The production is conducted by Lawrence Renes, with a cast including Daniel Okulitch as the Captain and Laurent Naouri as Klinghoffer. The libretto is by Alice Goodman.

Festival organisers said the choice of opening title reflects an intention to present opera as a form capable of addressing contemporary issues through artistic language, rather than political debate.

Practical information

Further performances of The Death of Klinghoffer are scheduled at the Maggio Musicale theatre on 22 and 26 April 2026.

(Photos: Michele Monasta from Facebook profile Teatro del Maggio musicale)

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