by InTrieste
In the serene gardens of the historic Villa Sartorio, an unusual buzz of excitement is building. On Wednesday, June 19, at 9:15 PM, the APPRODI Festival will host its second edition of the “Stand Up Contest Night,” a lively competition spotlighting the freshest faces in stand-up comedy. The event, a highlight of Trieste’s summer cultural calendar, promises an evening brimming with humor and spirited performances.
Nestled in Largo Papa Giovanni XXIII, 1, the Villa Sartorio’s gardens will transform into an open-air theater. Attendees can look forward to a night hosted by two dynamic personalities: Andro Merkù, a celebrated impersonator and radio author, and Andrea Mitri, a former footballer turned acclaimed writer and theater artist.
This event marks a continuation of APPRODI’s commitment to nurturing young comedic talent. Six finalists, whittled down from a national pool of applicants under the age of 36, will each take the stage for 12 minutes. Their task: to charm the audience and judges with their unique comedic perspectives. This year’s competitors include Simona Pirozzi from Naples, Chiara Citriniti from Catanzaro, Matteo Zini from Vicenza, Luca Anselmi from Trento, Luigi Manes from Rome, and Rosario Mancuso from Palermo.
Merkù, a Trieste native with a diverse career spanning radio, television, and theater, brings a wealth of experience and charisma to the event. Known for his decade-long tenure with Radio24’s “La Zanzara” and his current role at Radio Monte Carlo’s “Bonjour Bonjour,” Merkù has also made notable appearances on “Striscia la Notizia.” His theatrical one-man shows, blending cabaret and musical impersonations, have entertained audiences nationwide.
Mitri’s journey from the football fields of Serie B and C to the literary and theatrical stages of Italy is equally compelling. With over 300 professional football appearances and a burgeoning career in theater and writing, Mitri offers a blend of athletic and artistic prowess. His works, including “Poco sesso, niente droga e qualche gol” and performances in shows like “Atletico Short Stories,” showcase his versatility.
As the evening unfolds, a distinguished panel of judges, including Maura Catalan, administrative director of the Teatro Stabile del Friuli, and actor Lorenzo Acquaviva, will evaluate the performances. Their verdict, coupled with audience feedback, will determine the night’s victor, who will receive a €500 cash prize.
The APPRODI Festival, orchestrated by the Vitamina T association and supported by the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, is a testament to Trieste’s vibrant cultural scene. Collaborations with Fineco Bank, Trieste Estate, La Cappella Underground, and other local institutions underscore the festival’s community-centric ethos.
Upcoming Events at APPRODI Festival 2023:
- Friday, June 21: Andrea Argentieri as Charles Manson in “Manson” at Bartoli Hall, Rossetti Theater.
- Saturday, June 22: Biancofango’s “Fragile Show” at Luttazzi Hall.
- Sunday, June 23: Special screening of “Enigma Rol,” winner of the best docufilm at Nastri d’Argento 2024, with the filmmakers in attendance.
Tickets for all events are available at the entrance and for advance purchase at Ticket Point.
In a city renowned for its rich history and stunning landscapes, the “Stand Up Contest Night” offers a refreshing blend of contemporary comedy and communal celebration, marking yet another chapter in Trieste’s evolving cultural narrative.
