The Teatro dell'Opera at the Circus Maximus – 2026 Summer Season

From 29 June to 31 July 2026, the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma’s summer season returns to the Circus Maximus with a rich programme ranging from the much-loved Aida to the great masterpieces of cinema, including dance and symphonic-choral music.

The festival is characterised by its wide and diverse offering, designed for different audiences, combining the classical repertoire with contemporary forms of expression, in a venue that can welcome a higher number of spectators, against the backdrop of the largest building for public entertainment in Ancient Rome.

The programme opens on 29 June with Francesco. Un santo scomodo, a lecture-performance based on the book of the same name by historian Alessandro Barbero, a vibrant and human portrait of the saint, presented in Barbero’s characteristic style, where historical rigour meets theatrical storytelling. Following is Ridley Scott's Gladiator (3–4 July), a film in concert featuring the unforgettable soundtrack performed live, in sync with the movie, by the Orchestra and Chorus of the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, with the participation of Lisa Gerrard.

At the heart of the programme is Aida (12–28 July), Giuseppe Verdi’s masterpiece, scheduled for six performances, alongside events ranging from dance to live music: from the famous Roberto Bolle and Friends gala (14 July) to Romeo and Juliet (24–25 July), a ballet based on William Shakespeare’s tragedy, choreographed by John Cranko and performed by the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma Corps de Ballett, to Carl Orff’s evocative Carmina Burana (31 July), conducted by Wayne Marshall and featuring a video installation by Anagoor. 

The programme also includes a series of pop concerts featuring artists such as Riccardo Cocciante (6 July), Edoardo Bennato (20 July) and Patti Smith (27 July).