Simone Cristicchi’s theatrical performance, "Franciscus - Il folle che parlava agli uccelli," explores the life and message of St. Francis of Assisi, offering a contemporary perspective on the iconic figure. Through the character of Cencio, Cristicchi challenges traditional narratives, presenting St. Francis not as the flawless saint but as a man grappling with doubts and seeking answers amid societal chaos.
The production features ten original songs co-written by Cristicchi and singer-songwriter Amara, highlighting the themes of poverty, universal spirituality, and the delicate line between madness and holiness. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the CeDAC 2024-2025 season, the musical is set to captivate audiences with its blend of deep reflections and poignant music.
Cristicchi, reflecting on his role, said, "After 15 years of theater, I wanted to measure myself with something entirely my own, without relying on an external director... it’s not easy to direct oneself on stage from the outside!" His portrayal of Cencio serves as both commentator and critic of St. Francis’ experiences, enhancing the narrative's richness and complexity.
Set to run for five consecutive performances at the Teatro Massimo di Cagliari and one at Teatro Verdi di Sassari, the production has already sold out all tickets, prompting anticipation among fans and new audiences alike. The musical invites viewers to question their values and the world around them, offering lessons on humility and the necessity of living harmoniously with creation.
Cristicchi's exploration of these themes is both timely and poignant, asking the fundamental questions of existence and spirituality: "What can St. Francis, this extraordinary man who lived eight centuries ago, tell us today? His message still holds value?" Through the character of Cencio, audiences are encouraged to reflect on the relevance of St. Francis' teachings and their application to modern life.
The character Cencio is depicted as a wandering ragman, inventing his own language, and serves as a foil to St. Francis, embodying skepticism and curiosity. The performance challenges viewers to reflect on their own lives amid the clamor of contemporary society, echoing the urgent calls for simplicity and inner richness. It emphasizes the importance of shedding superficial beliefs and possessions to pursue true fulfillment.
St. Francis chose poverty, defining it as the deliberate act of letting go of excess, enabling one to cultivate inner wealth. Cristicchi reminds us, "When we are humble, we smell of earth, and we are seeds ready to sprout: humility derives from humus, which makes the earth fertile." Such reflections resonate with audiences, prompting them to confront their own shortcomings and mediocrity.
The high-intensity production aims to strike chords with its audience, creating space for introspection. The exploration of the miraculous nature of existence is encapsulated by Cristicchi's assertion, "For Simone, and for his Franciscus... everything is a miracle!" This statement serves as the production's thematic cornerstone, inviting viewers to ponder the extraordinary within the ordinary.
