Interview with Antonio Franco, the artistic director of 4 Fun Entertainment & The Ibiza Twiins

The world of entertainment gives Antonio the freedom to express his creativity, to connect with people through art and to be part of something extraordinary. The magic of entertainment has captivated him since he was very young and inspired him to dedicate himself to his vocation with passion and determination. The possibility of transforming reality and putting a smile on people’s faces is what motivates him every day to give his all in the world of entertainment.

Born in Naples in 1987, Antonio has spent 16 years working in the entertainment industry. He started out with some of the biggest names in musical theatre, making his debut in a production of A Chorus Line, a launchpad for the long, exciting journey that has been his career so far.

Antonio Franco is the artistic director of the 4 Fun Entertainment shows presented at The Ibiza Twiins during the summer 2023 season. This cast of 25 artists is putting on a performance telling the history of Ibiza through dance, music and lights.

  1. When did you decide to go into show business?
    There wasn’t one specific moment. Ever since I was a child, I’ve always said I wanted to be involved in show business, that I wanted to work in the theatre. I have always liked acting, entertaining people, making them smile and hearing them applauding. When I grew up, I tried to turn my childhood games into reality. All I could think about was the stage…and here I am!
  2. What was the beginning of your career like?
    Every day that has passed has confirmed my decision to work in the entertainment business. It’s a job that requires passion, commitment and dedication, but at the same time it is hugely rewarding. The opportunity to create engaging shows, to connect with the audience and turn my ideas into reality is incredibly fulfilling. I am grateful for the opportunity to do what I love and share my passion with others.
    It all started in 2007, when I was studying at the musical academy (LIM) in Rome. One day, a call came out for an audition for a musical from Compagnia della Rancia, the company of my dreams. The day of the audition, I woke up to go to the academy but my first thought was… I don’t want to do this audition. When I got to the venue, there were around 300 of us… and step by step, I got my first job with the company of my dreams.
  3. What is a day like in the life of an artistic director?
    Every day is different for an artistic director, varying according to what needs to be done and your engagements. However, I can give you a general idea of what the job of an artistic director involves:
    The first stage generally starts with a planning meeting, where I meet the creative team and we discuss aims and ideas for the next show or production. During this phase, we analyse the themes, choreography, the choice of music and technical considerations to ensure we have a unified and appealing vision.
    I then run the auditions and supervise rehearsals with dancers and singers. At the same time, I work to select and organise the wardrobe, the set and the lighting for the show.
    Next come the dress rehearsals and live performances, when I supervise closely all aspects of the show and make any necessary changes. During the performance, I’m there in the office or behind the scenes to deal with any unexpected problems and to make sure that everything is going to plan.
    In general, my day as an artistic director is full of stresses and responsibilities but there’s a great deal of satisfaction too. It is a job that requires passion, attention to detail and a commitment to the arts.
  4. How do you start putting together a show like the one you are putting on this summer at The Ibiza Twiins?
    The shows that are being created for The Ibiza Twiins are different from all the other performances on the island because they have been put together with the objective of offering guests a unique experience through art and creativity, telling the story, the life and tradition of the island of Ibiza. The new 2023 show for The Ibiza Twiins is “Hola Ibiza”.
  1. How can the choreography of the show be best described?
    I can answer this question by explaining the characteristic features of my artistic direction. I try to bring my artistic vision to each show, combining creativity and innovation, history and narrative, attention to detail, energy and passion to offer a unique experience for each audience member.
  2. What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the entertainment industry?
    Everyone’s journey can be different in this industry. There isn’t a magical formula for success, but with commitment, dedication and perseverance, you can create opportunities to make your dreams come true in the world of show business.
  3. Where do you find inspiration?
    My inspiration comes from personal experiences, emotions, cultural trends and many other influences that have intersected in my life and artistic environment. It’s a dynamic process and I’m always open to new ideas and the opportunities that come my way throughout my creative journey.
  4. What’s the hardest aspect of your profession?
    One of the greatest challenges in my profession as an artistic director is finding a balance between creativity and practicality.
  5. What do you most like about working at The Ibiza Twiins?
    The Ibiza Twiins is a creative, dynamic environment in which artists and performing arts professionals can express their creativity and collaborate to create engaging, unique shows.
    Being part of a production like the Ibiza Twiins gives you the opportunity to grow professionally and artistically.
  6. How do you train your dancers and singers?
    As an artistic director, training dancers and singers is a key aspect of my role.
    I run specific rehearsal sessions to improve technique and perfect artistic skills.
    I try to guide dancers and singers in how to interpret the music and choreography in an authentic, appealing way.
    I provide dancers and singers with regular information on their progress and performances. This can happen during rehearsals, dress rehearsals or in video review sessions. I use a constructive focus to highlight strong points and identify areas in which they can improve.
    I encourage and support the dancers and singers during the run-up to performances. I try to create a positive, motivating environment in which performers feel supported and inspired so they can get the best out of themselves.

Lastly, tell us what it is you like most about Ibiza and what you would say to a tourist who is coming to spend their holidays at The Ibiza Twiins.

Ibiza is a unique island that offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, vibrant nightlife and a cosmopolitan vibe. Ibiza Twiins is an exceptional experience that will take you on a thrilling journey through music, dance and its contagious energy. Get ready to immerse yourself in an astonishing show that captures the unique spirit of Ibiza and that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Get swept up in the magic of Ibiza and make the most of your holidays at The Ibiza Twiins!

Also I would like to say a special thank-you to the 4FUN & The Ibiza Twiins family for their support. You are an incredible team and instrumental in giving me the opportunity to express my creativity, put my ideas into practice and put on some unforgettable shows. Your trust in me and your continued support have given me the motivation and inspiration to always give it my all. I’m so grateful to be a part of this family and hope I will be able to create many more incredible shows with you. Many thanks for this marvellous opportunity.