by Alberto Macchione
Theatrical production The Italian Divorce has toured the major cities several times and has sold out almost everywhere it goes. The production was created by internationally acclaimed director, writer, comedian, and actor Frank Lotito. It stars Lotito alongside Rosanna Morales as his long-suffering wife, the brilliant Louisa Mignone as the spirited, independent daughter, and David Mollica as the mama’s boy son. The ensemble is rounded out by a talented supporting cast that brings additional layers of humor and heart to the story.
Allora spoke to the star and creator, Frank Lotito, who said of comedy, “Laughter is the best medicine; it’s a great way to celebrate life.” Laugh you will at this relatable, zany story about an Italian migrant family, their hilarious Greek widowed friend, and their newly separated son. The play explores modern values through the second-generation Italians against the backdrop of the traditional Italian migrant family. The show is peppered with classic Italian music, non-stop humour, clever cultural references, and a warm heart that reminds us of the importance of our relationships in life and family.
In one scene, award-winning film, television, and theatre actor Steve Mouzakis says to the protagonist, “Whatever you are fighting about, your wife is always right, because relationships aren’t about facts; they are about feelings.” Mouzakis steals every scene with his outrageously humorous antics and ultimately plays the sage archetype from which we can all take a lesson. At the end of the play, Lotito is visibly emotional as he breaks character to pay tribute to the many Italian migrants “who built this country” and who sacrificed so much for their families. After each production, the actors meet the fans, with Lotito saying to Allora, “This is my favourite part of the whole thing!” Audiences leave uplifted, often humming the melodies and quoting the funniest lines long after the curtain falls.
