The writer Stefano Benni died at 78. Writer, journalist and playwright Benni’s voice was one of the most loved of Italian literature, thanks to his humor that grew more generations of readers: the writer had retired to private life for a few years, struck by a disease that also prevented him from speaking. It leaves a literary heritage that has conquered readers all over the world, with works translated into over 30 languages.
Benni’s success is linked to novels and anthologies that have become cult of Italian literature, including “Bar Sport”, “Elianto”, “Terra!”, “The Compagnia dei Celestini” and “Baol”. Among all his works, the author had declared a particular predilection for “Blues in sixteen”, considering him his favorite book. Benni’s career has not limited himself to narrative. In 2012 he made his debut in the theatrical direction with “Le Beatrici”, freely taken from his text and presented at the Spoleto Festival. The following year he directed and interpreted “The poet and Mary”, a story for music and words dedicated to the social value of art. His theatrical experience saw him collaborate with giants of the Italian scene such as Dario Fo and Franca Rame, as well as with Angela Finocchiaro.