Margherita Palli is one of the most important contemporary Italian set designers, known for her extensive career in the world of theater, opera and television. Her life and artistic career are full of prestigious experiences and collaborations.

Life and education

Margherita Palli was born on October 17, 1951 in Mendrisio, Switzerland. Her passion for theater and set design emerged early, leading her to study Architecture at the Politecnico di Milano, where she graduated in 1976. Her architectural training greatly influenced her approach to set design, characterized by a strong focus on spaces and their functionality.

Artistic career

After graduation, Margherita Palli began to collaborate with director Luca Ronconi, one of the most influential Italian theater directors. This collaboration, which began in the 1980s, lasted for over thirty years and was fundamental to her career. With Ronconi, Palli has developed an innovative scenographic vision, capable of transforming theatrical spaces into complex and evocative worlds.

Main works

Margherita Palli’s main works include:

“Lohengrin” (1980) by Richard Wagner, directed by Luca Ronconi: A monumental opera that marked the beginning of her long collaboration with Ronconi.
“La Traviata” (1990) by Giuseppe Verdi, directed by Liliana Cavani: A memorable production for the Teatro alla Scala in Milan.
“Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda” (2000) by Claudio Monteverdi, directed by Luca Ronconi: An example of how Palli knows how to combine tradition and innovation.
“Don Giovanni” (2011) by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, directed by Robert Carsen: Another production for the Teatro alla Scala, which received wide acclaim.

Collaboration with the company “Gli incamminati”

Margherita Palli has had a significant relationship with the Compagnia Teatrale Gli Incamminati, founded in 1983 by Giovanni Testori, Emanuele Banterle and Sandro Lombardi. This company has distinguished itself for its commitment to promoting research and innovation in theatre. With Gli Incamminati, Palli has contributed to the creation of several theatre productions, bringing her unique scenographic vision and her ability to transform ideas into tangible and engaging scenarios. In particular, within the Meeting for Friendship among Peoples, she contributed to the creation of the shows “Miguel Manara” (1989) and “Assassinio nella cattedrale” (1990).

Contributions and awards

Margherita Palli’s contribution to the world of theatre and opera has been widely recognised. She has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Premio Ubu for scenography, one of the most prestigious Italian theatre awards.