by InTrieste
This week, the streets of Trieste are host to a unique visitor—a double-decker bus that isn’t just a bus. Known as This Is Not a Bus and inspired by René Magritte’s famous paradox, the vehicle is an immersive cultural laboratory aimed at engaging local youth in discussions about violence, social responsibility, and legality.
Stationed in Piazza Verdi from November 18 to 20, the bus, transformed into a space for theatrical performances, workshops, and video projections, is at the heart of an initiative led by Sciara Progetti Teatro. The event culminates on November 21 with a performance of Malanova at the Teatro Rossetti, a hard-hitting play exploring themes of violence and complicity through the true story of a young girl.
The project, created by Sciara Progetti and supported by local institutions, takes a proactive approach to addressing social challenges facing the city. In recent years, Trieste has seen a worrying rise in juvenile delinquency, with the so-called baby gangs—groups of teens involved in petty crime and harassment—gaining attention.
Why Trieste?
Representatives of Trieste’s Local Police, who are deeply involved in the initiative, suggest that the city’s geographical and cultural crossroads may contribute to this phenomenon. “Trieste is a melting pot, where diverse influences and challenges converge,” said Manuela Cunsolo, Police Commissioner for education. “Youth are facing increasingly complex pressures—from economic uncertainty to the pervasive effects of social media.”
A Community Response
This Is Not a Bus aims to turn these challenges into opportunities for growth. The immersive bus-lab offers young people a space to reflect, learn, and interact with experts, social workers, and artists. “This is about meeting youth where they are and addressing their realities in ways they find engaging,” said Ture Magro, the actor and director behind Sciara Progetti.
Workshops onboard include interactive sessions on responsible social media use, recognizing and preventing gender-based violence, and discussions on civic responsibility. Meanwhile, the live theatrical performance Malanova invites audiences to confront the painful realities of violence and societal complicity.
Preventing Future Baby Gangs
When asked how initiatives like these help counter the rise of baby gangs, the Local Police emphasized the importance of education and early intervention. “We’re fostering trust between youth and law enforcement,” Gianmarco Pavan, Deputy Commissioner, explained. “Through dialogue, we’re showing young people that the police are here to support them, not just to enforce rules.”
The project also emphasizes collaboration. In addition to the Local Police, organizations ranging from the regional education department to healthcare institutions have come together to provide a holistic response to youth distress.
A Broader Impact
The initiative is part of a national campaign that has traveled to multiple regions, engaging tens of thousands of students. By using creative, non-traditional methods, This Is Not a Bus and Malanova aim to build a culture of legality, respect, and shared responsibility.
As the immersive bus lab continues its journey through Trieste and beyond, it leaves behind not only informed young citizens but also a blueprint for communities worldwide seeking innovative ways to connect with their youth.
For more details on upcoming events, visit Sciara Progetti Teatro.
