10 October 202414 October 2024

The Future of Festivals: An International Conference in Martina Franca

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The Future of Festivals: An International Conference in Martina Franca

On November 8 and 9, Martina Franca will host an important event to discuss and exchange views on the future and prospects of festivals: the international conference “The Role and Function of Festivals in the 21st Century.” On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Festival della Valle d’Itria, the Paolo Grassi Foundation, in collaboration with EFA – European Festival Association and Italiafestival, of which the Festival is a part, has organized this meeting to outline new perspectives for the sector.

The event will be held at the “Isidoro Chirulli” Municipal Library in the heart of Martina Franca, with five working sessions taking place from the afternoon of Friday, November 8, through Saturday, November 9. Over thirty experts, including festival directors, journalists, and political representatives, will share reflections and innovative ideas with the aim of charting a course for the future of festivals.

 

Festivals as Instruments of Cultural Innovation
The conference emphasizes the crucial role that festivals play in the 21st century, not only as drivers of economic and tourism development but, above all, as instruments of cultural and social promotion. In an era characterized by constant change, cultural events face new challenges, including audience development and artistic innovation. Michele Punzi, president of the Foundation, stressed that “the future of festivals depends on building networks and sharing ideas. We felt the need to create a moment of meeting and discussion on the current role of festivals, but especially on what the future prospects for such events are. At this historical moment, we feel a strong need to take an active part in reflecting on some topics of common interest to industry professionals. The lesson passed down to us by those who have written the history of the Festival della Valle d’Itria is that the future can only be built by sharing ideas and solutions, creating networks, and building bridges with all those who have the common goal of promoting culture as a tool for improving the social context in which we live.“

 

Thematic Sessions and International Guests
Topics to be discussed include the value of festivals as a driver of culture and tourism, the importance of research and experimentation in artistic programming, and the impact of the new Code of Entertainment regulations. The conference will also address the most significant international case studies, with the participation of prestigious festivals such as the Rossini Opera Festival, the Ravenna Festival, and the Verdi Festival in Parma. A particularly interesting moment will be the focus dedicated to festivals in the Puglia region, a territory that in recent years has seen a flourishing of high-level cultural events, including the Notte della Taranta and the Festival Classiche Forme.

A Contribution to the Future of Festivals

The conference represents a unique opportunity for all industry professionals to discuss issues closely related to the future of festivals and their evolution. As emphasized by the organizers, collaboration and the exchange of ideas will be essential to ensuring that festivals can continue to serve as instruments of social change and cultural innovation.

 

With the support of the Ministry of Culture, the Puglia Region, the Chamber of Commerce of Brindisi and Taranto, and the Municipality of Martina Franca, as well as the contribution of BCC Locorotondo, the event promises to be a point of reference for European cultural debate.

 

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