The Malta Independent 9 May 2024, Thursday
View E-Paper

Pinocchio – the marionette who wanted to be a real boy

Monday, 18 July 2016, 15:42 Last update: about 9 years ago

The Johane Casabene Dance Conservatoire has created an original dance spectacle based on the magical world of Pinocchio by the Italian writer, Carlo Collodi. His incredible tale of youthful mischief, courage and the unconditional love of a parent will transport the entire audience through the various adventures of Pinocchio. 

Prior to Pinocchio's publication in 1883, no writer would have dreamt of creating a tale predominantly for children. This innovative initiative not only appealed to readers in those days but over the years, it has been translated into more languages than the Bible! We have created a highly innovative interpretation of this Italian tale through original dance choreographies. 

The intention is to transcribe a tale with a moral message to a diverse audience using the universal language of dance. Pinocchio will convey a message to the audience - a visual spectacle which everyone of any age will enjoy. The writer, Collodi will be interpreted by a narrator, who will also act as a tutor by communicating the more meaningful messages within the tale. Collodi himself was not particularly fond of children but through this tale, wanted to teach them to listen to the advice of adults and show that one has to work hard to succeed in life.

The audience will embark on a journey with Collodi and with the well-known character PinocchioThey will experience his adventures in a totally new way - through the expressive medium of dance enhanced with spectacular scenery, original musical score, vibrant costumes and more. Indeed, one might think Pinocchio is simply about a mischievous little puppet, yet this timeless tale goes beyond age and its values are relevant to children and adults alike to this very day. The balance between good and evil portrayed in the story are key and are the inspirational elements which transcend the entire theatrical rendition of this novel.

The internationally acclaimed Italian musician, Enrico Melozzi composed the original musical score to the story of Pinocchio. The captivating music has been one of the essential elements in the creation of the intricate and diverse choreographies. 

This dance adventure will certainly be a night to remember!  The Mediterranean Conference Centre, which is fully air-conditioned, will offer a perfect venue for an enjoyable summer's night out.

Pinocchio by Johane Casabene will be held on Friday, 22 July at 8pm. 

Online booking is now open and tickets are available from The Mediterranean Conference Centre Booking Office.


  • don't miss