Fonderia
National Choreographic Centre Headquarters
Just a stone’s throw from the historic centre of Reggio Emilia, the Fonderia is one of the city’s most remarkable venues, where industrial heritage and contemporary dance coexist in perfect harmony.
Formerly a foundry within the historic Lombardini Motori complex, it is now home to the Fondazione Nazionale della Danza / Aterballetto, recognised as one of Europe’s leading institutions dedicated to contemporary dance.
Opened in 2004 following a meticulous architectural restoration, the Fonderia has retained the charm of its original industrial purpose.
Iron, glass, vast spaces and exposed structural elements characterise the rooms, creating a space with a striking visual impact, where past and present interact naturally.
The heart of the building is the large central nave, 65 metres long and almost 13 metres high, which houses the main rehearsal hall and a spacious covered atrium. Here, every day, the creations of Aterballetto – a company renowned and acclaimed in the world’s most prestigious theatres – come to life.
The rehearsal rooms, the spaces dedicated to exhibitions, meetings and cultural activities, and the striking suspended walkway that crosses the building make the Fonderia a dynamic and ever-changing place.
Even the names of the rooms – Fucina, Fusione and Formatura – reflect the building’s historical heritage: just as metal was once shaped and transformed here, today ideas, movements and new artistic creations take shape in these spaces.
The Fonderia is not just a place where dance is born, but a space open to the city, hosting performances, open rehearsals, festivals, workshops, guided tours and meetings with Italian and international artists throughout the year.
Stepping into the Fonderia means discovering the most contemporary side of Reggio Emilia: a place where industrial heritage is renewed every day through art, research and creativity.
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