In March 2026, actor Timothée Chalamet sparked a wave of outrage with some remarks about the relevance of ballet and theater. “I don’t want to work in ballet, opera, or fields where it’s like saying, ‘Hey, let’s keep this thing alive, even though nobody cares about it anymore,’” he said .
Many have come out in defense of the performing arts and what happens on theater stages. But how many, in reality, buy a ticket, attend a show, and truly contribute to keeping this tradition alive? Among your end-of-summer resolutions, perhaps it’s time to add a new one: go back to the theater. Where to start? Here are six immersive shows and musicals in Milan you won’t want to miss.
Notre Dame de Paris
The quintessential musical: if you don’t know where to start, start here. Since its Italian debut in 2002, *Notre Dame de Paris* has captivated over 4.5 million spectators in Italy and 13 million worldwide. Its strength lies in the combination of Riccardo Cocciante’s music, Luc Plamondon’s lyrics (adapted into Italian by Pasquale Panella), captivating choreography, and a powerful visual world. At the heart of it all is Notre-Dame Cathedral. Here, the story of Quasimodo and Esmeralda is transformed into a grand, popular spectacle. It is not merely the tale of an impossible love, but a reflection—still relevant today—on marginalization, desire, justice, and the violence that society inflicts upon those it considers different.
When? March 11–21, 2027
Where? Teatro degli Arcimboldi in Milan
RENT
*RENT* is the most “cult” title in the selection. Since its 1996 debut, it has brought themes and characters—which were rarely the focus of a major commercial production at the time—into the mainstream musical theater. Young artists struggling to make ends meet, queer people, unconventional relationships, addiction, poverty. Jonathan Larson reimagines Puccini’s *La bohème*, transplanting it to New York’s East Village and transforming it into a choral rock opera, where the need to create, love, and build a community becomes a concrete response to fragility and fear of the future.
When? December3–30 , 2026
Where? Teatro degli Arcimboldi in Milan
Cost of Living
Winner of the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Martyna Majok’s *Cost of Living* is an intense yet unmissable production. The play brings together four people in moments of great vulnerability, exploring the “cost” of living, loving, caring for someone, and depending on others. The title refers not only to money but also to the emotional or physical cost that is often overlooked. The play is directed by Raphael Tobia Vogel, and the cast includes Sara Bertelà, Filippo Lai, Pietro Micci, and Martina Sammarco; set design by Margherita Palli, lighting by Oscar Frosio, and costumes by Ilaria Ariemme.
When? October 14–November 15, 2026
Where? Franco ParentiTheater
The Jury Experience
“The Jury Experience” is different from other productions because it is neither a musical nor a traditional play. It is an immersive and interactive theatrical experience in which the audience takes on the role of a jury. Spectators listen to testimonies, analyze evidence, identify contradictions, and, finally, decide the final verdict through an anonymous vote. In Milan, several cases are presented, including a trial for vehicular homicide that focuses on the liability of a car driven by artificial intelligence and a murder case where there is no trace of DNA.
When? Check all the dates on the official website
Where? Casa Cardinale Ildefonso Schuster
Gloria – The Musical
An all-new production based on Umberto Tozzi’s repertoire. The protagonist, Gloria, is a talented and determined young singer who dreams of making a name for herself. Her journey forms the basis of a story about artistic aspiration, identity, and the desire to find one’s own path. The lead role will be played by Valeria Mancini, while Umberto Tozzi will handle the music and serve as musical director. The libretto is by Andrea Maia, Toni Fornari, and Vincenzo Sinopoli; Maia and Fornari are directing. This is likely the most intriguing production for anyone looking to see a brand-new, all-Italian production!
When? October 23–November 1, 2026
Where? Teatro degli Arcimboldi in Milan
The Prince of Egypt – The Musical
Last but certainly not least, the Arcimboldi Theater is presenting an adaptation of the DreamWorks animated film that transforms the biblical story of Moses into a tale of brotherhood, identity, freedom, and responsibility. It’s a well-known film that many have seen at least once as children—perhaps even during religion class at school. The plot revolves around the dramatic bond between Moses and Ramses: two men raised as brothers, destined to find themselves on opposing sides when Moses discovers his origins and chooses to lead his people out of slavery. The production aims for a sweeping visual and auditory impact, featuringa large ensemble and spectacular sets.
When? November 25–December 13, 2026
Where? Teatro degli Arcimboldi in Milan
