More than 3,500 people gathered in Bologna for this year’s Il Sole di Hiroshima, an event held on August 6 in remembrance of the victims of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as well as all wars. The event was produced by Nipponica, and organized by Dr. Matteo Casari of the University of Bologna. This evening is celebrated every year and culminates with the moving tōrōnagashi ceremony, during which a sea of floating lanterns illuminates the canal crossing the Giardino del Cavaticcio, each serving as a personal tribute to peace.

This year the event included four shimai dances from the classical nō repertory. Udaka Tatsushige, Udaka Norishige, and Diego Pellecchia performed selections from Tenko, Fujito, Funa Benkei, and Hagoromo. Each dance was introduced by a dramatic reading of its text by actor Donatella Allegro, adding a rich narrative layer to the performance.

One of the recurring themes in nō drama is remembrance. Many of the protagonists are ghosts or spirits of individuals marked by traumatic experiences, tormented by jealousy, remorse, or the anguish of oblivion. It is through the telling of their stories that they can finally find peace. Other dramas, however, stage the union between gods and human beings as an expression of the desire for peace and harmony. Although deeply rooted in the cultural context in which it was created and developed, the universal themes of nō and its stylized language allow diverse audiences to connect with the stories represented. Like all masterpieces of theatre, these dramas not only have the ability to fix specific events in memory, but they also act as parables that make us reflect on the cyclical nature of the human experience. Thus, nō seemed to fit perfectly the theme and purpose of the event.

The event was provided to the city at no cost. All donations collected were fully dedicated to supporting AGEOP Ricerca and its vital work with young oncology patients and their families.

Following the event, a two-day workshop took place at the DAS Dispositivo Arti Sperimentali where participants learned the fundamentals of nō chant and dance. The workshop saw strong attendance from a diverse and engaged group of participants.

Our deepest thanks go to Nipponica for their impeccable organization and to Matteo Casari for his essential support. This important initiative was made possible through their dedication and passion.