Teatro Trianon Viviani

Teatro Trianon Viviani, located in Naples’ Forcella district, is a historic gem representing the city’s theatrical and musical traditions. Opened in 1911, the theater was created as an accessible venue for the working class, distinguishing itself from the more elitist theaters such as the San Carlo. From its early years, the Trianon became one of the main venues for the sceneggiata napoletana, a theatrical form combining music, drama, and dialect poetry, deeply rooted in local culture.

A Theater Between History and Transformations

During the Fascist regime in the 1930s, the theater was renamed “Trionfale” to align with the era’s linguistic policies. Later, it was repurposed as a cinema hall called “Splendore.” In the 1990s, the Trianon experienced a period of decline and was eventually closed. Its revival came in the 2000s through an ambitious restoration project promoted by the Campania Region and the Municipality of Naples, aiming to restore its original role as a theater and cultural hub.

Raffaele Viviani and the Naming

In 2006, the theater was named after Raffaele Viviani, one of the greatest Neapolitan playwrights, actors, and composers, who made popular Neapolitan culture the heart of his art. The renaming pays tribute to his work and dedication to representing the human and social stories of Naples in his time.

The Theater Today: Tradition and Innovation

Today, the Teatro Trianon Viviani is managed by the Trianon Viviani Foundation, with participation from the Campania Region and the Metropolitan City of Naples. Under the artistic direction of Marisa Laurito, the theater has gained new energy, expanding its repertoire and promoting Neapolitan song as an intangible cultural heritage.

One of its most innovative projects is the Room of the Magic of Neapolitan Song, an interactive exhibition space celebrating the history and evolution of this musical tradition. The goal is to create a bridge between past and present, making Neapolitan song accessible and engaging for younger generations.

Programming and Cultural Activities

The Trianon’s schedule includes a diverse range of performances, from sceneggiata to contemporary music concerts, comedies, and recitals dedicated to Neapolitan heritage. Legendary performers such as Totò, in his early career, and contemporary artists like Nino D’Angelo—who also served as artistic director—have graced its stage.

A Symbol of Forcella’s Cultural Revival

Teatro Trianon Viviani has become a symbol not only of Neapolitan culture but also of the revitalization of Forcella, an area often associated with social challenges. As a cultural hub, the theater helps strengthen Naples’ cultural identity and supports the local community.

Visiting the Trianon means diving into the soul of Naples—its sounds, voices, and colors—celebrating an unbreakable bond between art and the people.