NAPLES – Renowned Neapolitan actor Alessandro Siani is bringing his latest show, ‘Fake News,’ to the Diana Theatre, where it will run for an entire month, starting from Christmas and extending until January 27. The show, which has already seen multiple sold-out dates, delves into the pervasive nature of misinformation and the elusive concept of truth in contemporary society.
Siani’s Take on Journalism and the Truth
Siani, known for his comedic yet insightful commentary on social phenomena, expressed a hypothetical desire to be a journalist, not to manipulate opinions, but to ensure the accurate flow of information. “Journalists have an important responsibility, a serious mission, not to guide opinion, but the traffic of news. Therefore, to report true news and pay attention to what circulates incorrectly online in various blogs,” Siani stated.
He highlighted the absurdity of recurrent fake news, citing examples such as false reports of Vasco Rossi’s death or sightings of Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Siani lamented the public’s over-reliance on mobile phones for information, which often leads to confusion between reality and fiction. He humorously noted the irony, stating, “The only certainty is politicians; there’s no doubt, their statements are not ‘doctored,’ they are always false!”
Social Media, Identity, and the Blurring Lines
Despite his recent foray into WhatsApp, Siani admits he doesn’t personally use social media platforms, though he monitors them to stay abreast of daily oddities and fantastical stories, some of which concern him directly. He recounted instances where people confuse his on-screen persona with his real life, mistaking actress Nunzia Schiano for his mother due to their frequent collaborations. This blurring of lines extends to his own family, with his father’s name and even his own parentage being misrepresented online.
AI, Employment, and the Human Capacity for Deceit
Siani also touched upon the topical issue of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on the job market. He expressed concern about AI displacing workers, particularly older individuals, and contributing to further confusion between unemployed youth and seniors. He believes AI could be an opportunity for placement rather than displacement of workers at 50 years old.
When asked whether AI produces truth or ‘fake news,’ Siani offered a cynical yet humorous perspective: “It is an extension of men’s faculties in their ability to tell lies, in which we are insurmountable, unbeatable.” He elaborated on the human tendency to lie in everyday life, whether at weddings, to friends, or in romantic pursuits, concluding that “the only antidote against ‘fake’ is love.”
The Paradox of Modern Solitude and Consumerism
The actor also explored the paradox of increasing solitude in an era of technological connectivity. He observed how people are becoming more isolated, relying on apps for basic needs rather than engaging with their neighbors. This technological solitude, he argued, contributes to the spread of fake news in the form of scams, citing instances of elderly individuals being defrauded by call center employees.
Siani’s show will also tackle the relentless barrage of advertising tactics, such as time-limited offers, using a comedic approach and nostalgic references to “the good old days.”
Siani’s Enduring Success and Connection with the Audience
Reflecting on his widespread success, which sees him touring across Italy and even to Zurich, Siani expressed his continuous surprise and emotion at the overwhelming affection from his audience. He attributes this to the stage being “the realm of reality, but above all of fiction, where everything mixes in the sharing of the true warmth of people.”
Siani’s ‘Fake News’ promises to be a thought-provoking yet entertaining exploration of truth, technology, and human nature, delivered with his signature Neapolitan charm and wit.
