by InTrieste
A beloved cultural tradition in Trieste is marking a milestone this fall as the city’s Teatro in Dialetto Triestino (Triestine Dialect Theater) enters its 40th season. Founded in 1984, this unique theatrical institution has grown from humble beginnings into a cornerstone of local culture, attracting audiences with its blend of comedy, tradition, and modern flair — all in the distinct dialect of the region.
At a recent press conference in Trieste’s Municipal Executive Room, local officials and theater organizers gathered to unveil plans for the 2024-2025 season. Led by L’Armonia Aps — an association that brings together numerous amateur theater companies — the season will feature nine subscription plays and six off-program productions. The new season also brings significant changes, including a venue switch and a focus on keeping ticket prices affordable amid rising costs.
“We present the new season of Triestine Dialect Theater, an important one because L’Armonia Aps turns 40,” said Deputy Mayor Serena Tonel. She emphasized the cultural value of dialect theater, calling it “the language of the heart and spontaneity” and a vital testament to the city’s history.
A New Home for a Beloved Tradition
This year marks a turning point for the theater. After decades at the Teatro Silvio Pellico, rising venue fees and the closure of nearby parking prompted the organizers to relocate. The season will now be hosted at the Teatrino Basaglia in the scenic San Giovanni Park.
“Maintaining affordable ticket prices has always been a priority for us,” explained Paolo Dalfovo, president of L’Armonia Aps. “We want this theater to remain accessible to everyone.” He added that the move was made in consultation with local authorities and the region’s cultural heritage board, ensuring that the transition preserves the theater’s community-driven spirit.
To further accommodate audiences, the theater has partnered with Trieste’s public transport service to offer special buses to and from the performances.
A Showcase of Local Talent and Original Works
Over the years, the Teatro in Dialetto Triestino has become known for its dedication to showcasing both original and adapted works that highlight the region’s culture and language. Many of the productions are comedies, but the theater has also ventured into more dramatic and contemporary themes.
The 2024-2025 season kicks off on October 19 with Meio Soli!, a comedy adapted into dialect by Monica Parmegiani and directed by Riccardo Fortuna. Over the course of the season, audiences will enjoy a range of productions from local theater companies, including Tuto pol suceder! (Anything Can Happen!), Contemosela giusta (Let’s Tell It Right), and Sold out (fora i bori!) (Sold Out – Get Your Money Out!).
In addition to the subscription series, six off-program shows will further enrich the season, including a special performance celebrating the 100th anniversary of the birth of Franco Basaglia, the renowned psychiatrist who revolutionized mental health care in Italy.
A Legacy of Passion and Popularity
Since its founding in 1984, Teatro in Dialetto Triestino has produced an impressive 372 comedies, staged more than 2,180 performances, and attracted over 450,000 spectators. What began as a modest effort to preserve local dialect and traditions has flourished into a thriving cultural institution that has gained national recognition for its artistic excellence.
Riccardo Fortuna, the theater’s artistic director, expressed his excitement for the new season. “We are proud to continue offering our audiences a diverse selection of plays, from classics to contemporary works,” he said. “And with the addition of six new off-program shows, we’re bringing even more variety to this special anniversary season.”
Looking to the Future
As Teatro in Dialetto Triestino celebrates its 40th anniversary, the organizers are keenly aware of the need to evolve while preserving the theater’s roots. The decision to move to a new venue and maintain affordable pricing is part of this commitment to making Triestine dialect theater accessible to all.
“This is not just about celebrating the past,” said Dalfovo. “It’s about ensuring that this tradition continues to thrive for future generations.”
With a new venue, a packed season, and a growing audience, Trieste’s Teatro in Dialetto remains a testament to the enduring power of local culture and the language that has been its voice for 40 years.
