A fa mej 'na bèla ghignada pìtost che... — Piedmontese Language Theatre Festival

A festival celebrating the Piedmontese dialect

In the small town of Piovà Massaia, nestled in the hills of the Monferrato in the province of Asti, one of the region's most beloved cultural initiatives comes to life every summer: the amateur theatre festival in the Piedmontese language "A fa mej 'na bèla ghignada pìtost che...". The title itself, in dialect, encapsulates the spirit of the event: it's better to have a good laugh than... anything else. It is a statement of intent that focuses on lightheartedness, smiles, and the warmth of the community.

Organizers

The festival is curated by the "Et veuli che t'la conta" amateur theatre volunteer association of Piovà Massaia, with the patronage and support of the Municipality. Its stated goal is to promote and pass on local culture and the Piedmontese language, an identity heritage that popular theatre helps keep alive from generation to generation.

The Venue: Palamenta in Piazza San Martino

The performances are held at the Palamenta, the marquee set up in Piazza San Martino, in the heart of the village. It is a covered and welcoming space that allows the public to be hosted even on summer evenings, ensuring the success of the performances in any weather condition.

The Programme

The festival takes place throughout the summer with a series of theatre evenings on variable dates, generally starting at 9:00 PM. Each appointment offers a comedy in the Piedmontese dialect, performed by amateur troupes from the Asti area and neighbouring provinces. Audiences can enjoy the classic misunderstandings of popular comedy, local stories, and the characters that animate the Piedmontese theatrical tradition.

• Evening performances from June to October
• Amateur troupes performing in the Piedmontese language
• Brilliant two-act comedies
• Free admission

A tradition of the Asti Monferrato

For over a decade, the festival has been a landmark for fans of dialect theatre from across the province of Asti and Piedmont. It is an opportunity to gather, to hear one's own language on stage, and to rediscover an authentic way of being together. Here, the Piedmontese dialect is not a museum piece but a living language, still capable of making people laugh and move.

Attending an evening of "A fa mej 'na bèla ghignada" means immersing yourself in the genuine soul of the Monferrato, amidst hills, vineyards, and the hospitality of a village that makes popular culture its most heartfelt celebration.