Genius Loci
The theatre festival showcasing the talents of the Alessandria region
About Genius Loci
Theatre as a mirror of the region
In Valenza, a town in the Monferrato area of Alessandria world-renowned for its goldsmithing, the Teatro Sociale on Corso Garibaldi hosts Genius Loci every spring, a theatre festival entirely dedicated to local talent. The Latin name, evoking the "spirit of the place," perfectly summarizes the project's mission: to give a voice and a stage to actors, directors, playwrights, and companies born or trained in the province of Alessandria.
A growing festival
Now in its third edition in 2026, Genius Loci has established itself as one of the most anticipated events in the Valenza cultural season. The program alternates between authorial monologues, reinterpretations of great classics, and new contemporary plays, with performances by artists such as Lisa Galantini, Michele Puleio, Debora Zuin, and Dario Benedetto, all united by their connection to the Alessandria area.
What to expect
- Evening performances (9:00 PM) in a historic theatre with an intimate atmosphere
- A mix of professional theatre and dramaturgical research
- Themes ranging from poetry to comedy, drama to stand-up
- Meetings and previews with playwrights and directors, also open to schools
- A single, accessible ticket price of 10 euros per show
Valenza and its cultural scene
Known primarily as an international capital of jewelry, Valenza complements its manufacturing vocation with a vibrant cultural life. Genius Loci is a prime example of how a Piedmontese community can celebrate its artistic roots, transforming the Teatro Sociale into a reference point for audiences in the province of Alessandria and the entire Monferrato region.
An identity-driven project
More than just a season of shows, Genius Loci is a journey of collective recognition: every evening celebrates a story, a face, and a voice that belongs to the territory. It is proximity theatre in the noblest sense, capable of combining artistic quality with local roots.
Genius Loci — edition 2026
The third edition of Genius Loci took place at the Teatro Sociale of Valenza from May 9 to May 29, 2026, featuring four evenings dedicated to the artistic excellence of the Alessandria region. The program alternated between authorial monologues, reinterpretations of classics, and new contemporary plays, confirming the festival's commitment to showcasing the most authentic local voices.
Leading up to the program, on Monday, May 4, a preview meeting was held at the Centro Comunale di Cultura with Valenza-born playwright Chiara Pasetti, open to the public and schools. All performances began at 9:00 PM, with admission at 10 euros.
Programme Genius Loci 2026
Preview — Monday, May 4
- Meeting with Valenza-born playwright Chiara Pasetti, at the Centro Comunale di Cultura (Piazza 31 Martiri 1), open to the public and schools.
Saturday, May 9, 9:00 PM — "Vivo della poesia"
- Monologue dedicated to poet Antonia Pozzi (1912-1938)
- Performed by Lisa Galantini
- Dramaturgy by Chiara Pasetti, directed by Alberto Giusta, narrated by Massimo Popolizio
Thursday, May 14, 9:00 PM — "C.A.T.T.I.V.O."
- "Cose Apparentemente Trascurabili Trasformate In Vicende Orribili", with Michele Puleio and the Kapushka Group
- On stage with Michele Scarcella and Antonio Careddu
Thursday, May 21, 9:00 PM — "Senso"
- Based on the famous novella by Camillo Boito
- Performed by actress Debora Zuin
Friday, May 29, 9:00 PM — "Non si mangia"
- Irreverent monologue by actor, author, and stand-up comedian Dario Benedetto
- Directed by Benedetto himself, based on a text by Alberto Milesi
Highlights Genius Loci 2026
Prices Genius Loci 2026
Practical information — Genius Loci
Location
Teatro Sociale di Valenza, Corso Garibaldi 58, 15048 Valenza (AL), Piedmont.
How to get there
By car: Valenza is accessible via the A26 motorway (Casale Monferrato Sud exit) or the A21. By train: Valenza station, on the Alessandria-Mortara line. The theatre is located in the historic center, just a few minutes' walk away.
Tickets
Admission is 10 euros per show. Online presale available on the Liveticket platform. Box office open Tuesday to Friday 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM. Information: tel. 0131 920154, WhatsApp 324 0838829, [email protected].
Times
Performances begin at 9:00 PM.
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Where does it take place — Genius Loci
Teatro Sociale di Valenza
Corso Garibaldi 58, 15048 Valenza