Emma Dante has received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 2026 Venice Biennale Theatre. The Venice Biennale Board of Directors made this decision based on a recommendation from Willem Dafoe, Director of the Theatre Department, who recognizes the work of the Palermo-based actress and director whose dramaturgy is defined by rhythm, the use of Sicilian dialect, and a strong focus on social issues. “Emma Dante is an artist, a woman who, originating from Palermo and rooted in the very heart of her city, has succeeded in elevating Sicily to prominence. She has revitalized the profound teachings of Luigi Pirandello, Leonardo Sciascia, Andrea Camilleri, as well as Ciprì, Maresco, and Franco Scaldati, boldly engaging in a distinctive linguistic exploration while also imbuing those challenging and often painful themes that have historically defined her homeland with theatrical vitality", states the citation for the award, which will be presented to the author of La Scortecata during the 54th International Theatre Festival (7 – 21 June) in the Sala delle Colonne at Ca’ Giustinian, the venue of the Biennale.