Seeking Innovation in Tradition: the role of directors and the importance of visual language in Opera

Tradition and innovation are two fundamental elements in the world of opera and their relationship has long been debated. The role of directors, which has not been particularly investigated, can provide fundamental details regarding the innovation of the visual aspects of opera. This thesis focuses precisely on these figures, starting with an analysis of the complex Cultural and Creative Industries and going more into detail about opera and its main characteristics. Once the main co-ordinates in the world of opera had been investigated, a quantitative analysis was carried out, followed by a more detailed qualitative analysis through interviews with a sample of directors, the focus of this work. The qualitative analysis was aimed at gathering information regarding their identity, the relationship between innovation and tradition, innovation and authenticity and, finally, with regard to how directors interpret their delicate and fundamental role as guardians of the opera tradition. Through the formation of certain clusters, it is therefore possible to understand the main characteristics of their thoughts and artistic choices.