USI and Compagnia Finzi Pasca: a new partnership between art, education, and civic engagement

Università della Svizzera italiana is embarking on a collaborative journey with Compagnia Finzi Pasca, an internationally renowned artistic ensemble known for its poetic and visionary language.

Following several ad hoc collaborations in recent years, a more structured form of collaboration is now in development. The goal is to foster a deeper dialogue between the university, the performing arts, and civil society—a meeting of different yet complementary worlds: academic research, critical reflection, and the narrative power of theatre.

"Prima Facie" at LAC: a performance that questions justice

From 6 to 8 March 2026, at LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura, the company will stage Prima Facie, the monologue by Suzie Miller that has sparked global debate on gender-based violence and the mechanics of the judicial system.

In this Italian version produced by Compagnia Finzi Pasca, the play stars Melissa Vettore, directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, with music by Maria Bonzanigo, set design by Matteo Verlicchi and costumes by Giovanna Buzzi.

Through the story of a brilliant and determined defence lawyer, Prima Facie intensely tackles the issue of gender-based violence, questioning how the law and the courts treat victims. It is a work designed to challenge the status quo and raise urgent questions.

A dialogue between theatre and academia

To coincide with the Lugano performances, an in-depth session dedicated to gender-based violence will feature Annamaria Astrologo, Adjunct Professor at the Law Institute (IDUSI) at USI Faculty of Economics, and scientific director of the Ticino Observatory on Organised Crime. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to creating spaces where artistic production and academic reflection meet, offering the university community and the local region opportunities for interdisciplinary dialogue.

Special promotion for USI students

Thanks to the collaboration with the Compagnia Finzi Pasca, special rates are available for students:

• Under 25: tickets from CHF 16 to CHF 23 for all performances
• University students over 25: 40% discount on full-price tickets for the Saturday, 7 March performances (4 pm and 8 pm)
  Promotional code: PRFS5698

Discounts are subject to availability, cannot be combined with other offers, and do not apply to previously purchased tickets. A valid student ID or proof of enrollment is required.

Tickets can be purchased online at the LAC website or at the box office by entering the promotional code at checkout.