Teresa Mannino, one of the most appreciated and intelligent authors of contemporary Italian comedy theater, is making her highly anticipated television debut with the show "Il Giaguaro Mi Guarda Storto" on February 24 at 9:30 PM on the NOVE channel, also available for streaming on Discovery+. This performance marks Mannino's return to the stage filled with desires, stories, and questions. Her first desire is to reconnect with her audience, exchanging glances with every spectator, from the front row to the back, to discover who we have all become following this prolonged absence.
The centerpiece of the show is desire—a life-giving vitality igniting dreams, stoking hearts, and fostering freedom of movement. "Il Giaguaro Mi Guarda Storto" is produced by Stregonia, penned by the talented duo Teresa Mannino and Giovanna Donini, with contributions from Maria Nadotti. The show’s direction also falls under Mannino’s expertise, ensuring her unique vision translates effectively to the small screen. The scenic design is by Maria Spazzi and lighting design by Roberta Faiolo, with costumes provided by the Istituto Melodia. The executive production and distribution are handled by Savà Produzioni Creative.
Under the banner of the NOVE Comedy Club, Mannino's "Il Giaguaro Mi Guarda Storto" aims to adapt the universal language of theater directly to the hearts of television viewers. The one-woman show, rich with laughter and introspection, showcases not just her story but also includes self-irony and social commentary. Throughout the performance, Mannino tackles myriad subjects, including commentary on contemporary society and reflections on the role of technology today.
Central to the show is Mannino's analysis of the world we live in. She brings attention to the impact of technology and applications on our daily lives, illustrating how it has changed our interactions. A particularly thought-provoking segment discusses the matriarchal life of leafcutter ants, where males are deemed useful solely for reproduction. Such reflections are not new for Mannino, having shared similar themes during her co-hosting stint at the Sanremo Music Festival last year.
While the first part of the show offers hilarious banter concerning the dynamic between a menopausal mother and her teenage daughter, highlighting the comical tension across generations, it also touches on nostalgic moments when children sought answers at libraries rather than through quick online searches.
At its core, "Il Giaguaro Mi Guarda Storto" explores the theme of suffocated desire fueled by fear—a paralyzing sentiment causing us to perceive shooting stars not as good omens but as potential threats. Mannino invites viewers to dance, observe, interrogate, or simply listen as if her words are lullabies, emphasizing the essence of dreaming and remaining vigilant to life's possibilities.
This captivating show is just the beginning for Mannino's fans. Following her premiere, NOVE will air more of her beloved works, starting on March 3 with "Terrybilmente Divagante," followed by "Sono Nata il Ventitré" on March 10, and wrapping up with "Sento la Terra Girare" on March 17—all airing at 9:30 PM. There will be ample opportunity for viewers to immerse themselves in Mannino's comedic universe through both live broadcasts and on-demand streaming via Discovery+.
With the return of Teresa Mannino to TV, fans and new viewers alike will gain insight not only through laughter but through poignant reflections on life's absurdities and the desires we harbor within.