Queens on stage

The exhibition explores the theme of royalty as a scenic invention, a language that spans centuries, genres and styles.

At the heart of the exhibition are stage costumes from both cinema and theatre.

The exhibition itinerary offers the opportunity to admire a selection of thirty-one dresses, which in the history of cinema have been able to build the image of queens, often beyond historical truth, as universal archetype, queens of myth, history and fantasy.

The exhibition is structured around three main themes: myth, history and fantasy. 

You will meet iconic figures: historical ones, like: Marie Antoinette played by Kirsten Dunst directed by Sofia Coppola (2006, costumes by Milena Canonero) or belonging to the myth, like Medea/Maria Callas by Pasolini (1969, costumes by Piero Tosi) or, even, fantastic figures drawn from literature and drama, like the Queen of Longtrellis from Tale of Tales of Garrone, i, interpreted by Salma Hayek (2015, costumes by Massimo Cantini Parrini).

The costumes on display are designed by great costume designers and artists, created by historic Italian tailors for various directors and famous actresses. 

The works come from major tailors, archives and museum collections such as the Uffizi Galleries – Museum of Fashion and Costume in Florence.

Curated by Massimo Cantini Parrini
with Clara Goria
Curatorial assistant: Maria Elena Angei

Exhibition design by Paolo Bertoncini Sabatini
in collaboration with Emanuele Carrai and Andrea Crudeli
- Dedalo Building Lab Florence

Massimo Cantini Parrini, internationally renowned costume designer, twice Oscar nominee, six-time David di Donatello Award winner, the last one in 2025 for the film Le déluge. The Flood by Gianluca Jodice (2024), shot at the Venaria Reale, in addition to five Silver Ribbons and other international awards. He collaborates with leading Italian and international directors, designing costumes for films, theatre productions, exhibitions and major international events, such as the costumes for the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games.