"Io non ci volevo venire" - Francesco, il Sultano, il frate imprudente

✨ "I Didn't Want to Come Here" or Francis, the Sultan, and the Imprudent Friar*✨

"I'm here to convert your soul to Christ. If I don't succeed, you can cut off our heads..." 😳 And that last bit I really didn't want to translate...

🕯️ The Theatrical Story

The association Spazio GIF – ETS is pleased to announce the revival of the theatrical story "I Didn't Want to Come Here" or Francis, the Sultan, and the Imprudent Friar, which will be performed on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 8:30 PM in the extraordinary setting of the Cloister of the Capuchin Friars Minor in Terlizzi, open to the public for the occasion.

"I Didn't Want to Come Here..." is a monologue featuring the eccentric Friar Prudente as the main character and narrator, who claims to have been a witness, in his role as translator, to the historical meeting that took place in 1219 during the Fifth Crusade between Saint Francis of Assisi and the Sultan of Egypt Malik al-Kamil. An episode that, although rooted in medieval history, resonates today with extraordinary power: a dialogue between worlds divided by war, which becomes a universal invitation to peace and genuine dialogue.

The friar, in his narrative, with a style far from any rhetoric, offers unconventional reflections on themes that are always current, such as war, the construction of peace, power, and faith.

In a historical moment where the word peace seems to have vanished from the horizon, especially in the Middle East torn by conflicts reminiscent of past centuries, the reflection offered by this live story becomes even more urgent. The friar, with irony and clarity, reminds us that the construction of peace is never a given but requires courage, listening, dialogue, and recognition of the dignity of others.

The charming and welcoming Capuchin Cloister in Terlizzi will be reopened to the public for the occasion, revealing its intimate and convivial dimension, ideal for this meeting suspended between memory, present relevance, and the need for debate.

The event is organized with the collaboration and hospitality of the Secular Franciscan Order of Terlizzi, and it is also a precious opportunity to discover and appreciate the Cloister and the nearby Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, places that hold history and spirituality.

⚠️ *Limited seats* - Entry with voluntary donation

📲 For information, send a WhatsApp message to the number 347 6071698

📧 Further information: *spaziogif@gmail.com*

🎭 "I Didn't Want to Come Here / Francis, the Sultan, and the Imprudent Friar" is written and performed by Raffaele Tedeschi

👥 Executive Production: Angela Dello Russo and Tommaso Parisi.

🎟️ Every small contribution will be invaluable to support the organization and bring life to this extraordinary place!
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