Habil delle città – Bologna Welcome
Teatro dell’Argine will present its new production, Habil delle città, at the Sala dello Stabat Mater within the Archiginnasio of Bologna from June 30 to July 5, 2026. The performance utilizes virtual reality and live theatre to examine the life and death of a teenager living on the margins of urban society.
The Narrative of Habil
The production follows Habil, a teenager described as living on the outskirts of today’s cities. According to Teatro dell’Argine, the character is defined by a sense of invisibility, a cramped living space, and the presence of a blade kept in his pocket. The narrative depicts Habil as a figure often encountered by the public in everyday spaces like regional trains, bus stops, and shopping centers. His story involves writing rap lyrics and recurring conflicts with a character named Qabil.
Performance Structure and Audience Experience
The performance is designed for small groups of spectators who are seated in a circle. The experience is divided into two distinct parts that transition from individual immersion to collective reflection. In the first segment, audience members use virtual reality headsets to follow Habil through a seemingly ordinary day. The experience concludes with the reveal of the teenager’s body covered by a white sheet, a moment intended to disrupt the distance between the audience and the character.
The second part of the production moves to a shared space where the audience sits with six young actors and actresses. This segment functions as a ritual or a modern Greek tragedy, focusing on the social and individual responsibilities surrounding the loss of a teenager. Through this transition, the production prompts viewers to consider their own connection to the character and the wider implications of such a death.
Future Implications
The success of this production could influence how future theatre projects under the Politico Poetico program address social issues. As the project is co-funded through the European Union’s PN Metro Plus 2021–2027 programme, the reception of Habil delle città may serve as a case study for the effectiveness of combining virtual reality with live performance to engage younger generations. Analysts expect that if the format proves effective in fostering dialogue about social responsibility, similar immersive techniques could be integrated into future municipal educational and cultural initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where and when will the performance take place?
The production will be held at the Sala dello Stabat Mater at the Archiginnasio of Bologna from June 30 to July 5, 2026.
What is the role of virtual reality in the show?
In the first part of the performance, audience members wear VR headsets to walk alongside Habil through his daily life, providing an immersive perspective before the final scene.
Who is behind the production of Habil delle città?
The performance is produced by Teatro dell’Argine in collaboration with the Municipality of Bologna and the IU Rusconi Ghigi Foundation, as part of the Politico Poetico project.
How do you think the use of virtual reality changes the way we perceive the struggles of those on the margins of our own cities?