Franco Zeffirelli, born in Florence in 1923, was one of the most important theatre and opera directors of the 20th century. After gaining initial experience as a stage designer, he became known for his directing work in the 1950s, particularly with his acclaimed production of La Traviata at La Scala in Milan. Zeffirelli made his mark on the international opera and theatre world with opulent, visually impressive productions. In addition to his work on stage, he also made a name for himself in film, particularly with his adaptation of Romeo and Juliet (1968) and the epic TV drama Jesus of Nazareth (1977), which became classics worldwide. Zeffirelli’s works were characterised by magnificent costumes and innovative lighting design, which earned him both admiration and criticism. He was honoured with numerous awards for his life’s work, including the David di Donatello and Olivier Awards. Franco Zeffirelli died in 2019 at the age of 96. His legacy lives on through his unforgettable productions and his formative role in the international cultural world.
