Memorare '26

‘Memorare’ returns to the Basilica of San Petronio – a project that combines dance, music and song in a moment of meditation and reflection. The third edition, scheduled for 8 and 9 November 2026, is dedicated to the relationship between humankind and Creation, marking the 800th anniversary of the death of St Francis of Assisi.

Inspired by the Canticle of the Creatures, Memorare ’26 invites us to rediscover nature as a gift and as part of a relationship that unites all living beings. The dance symbolically interprets some of the creatures evoked by the Franciscan tradition – air, water, earth, fire and death – through classical and contemporary choreography, accompanied by a world premiere.

The choreography will be accompanied by the Choir of the San Petronio Musical Chapel, music played on the Basilica’s historic organs, and musicians from the Teatro Comunale di Bologna, in a dialogue between dance, song, music and the monumental architecture of San Petronio.

The project, born out of an invitation from Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, was conceived by Vittoria Cappelli, with artistic direction by Valentina Bonelli, Stefano Culiersi and Roberto Giovanardi, and produced by the Bologna Festival. The initiative will also serve as an opportunity to raise funds for the Diocesan Caritas.

Programme

Sunday 8 November, 5.00 pm – dress rehearsal open to schools and young
people Monday 9 November, 8.30 pm – evening event open to the public

The event takes place in the Basilica of San Petronio, in Piazza Maggiore. Admission is free.