Vernacolo al Torrione

Vernacular theatre beneath the ancient walls of Empoli

Every summer, the Torrione di Santa Brigida garden, at the foot of the ancient fortification overlooking Empoli's historic centre, transforms into an open-air theatre. Vernacolo al Torrione is a festival showcasing Tuscan dialect comedy—a popular genre filled with misunderstandings, sharp wit, and everyday characters speaking the local tongue. The setting is one of the most cherished spots for locals: the Torrione, located on Via delle Antiche Mura in the heart of the Municipality of Empoli, in the province of Florence.

A tradition that rediscovers the local language

Vernacular theatre is more than just entertainment; it is a way to preserve and pass down the unique speech, customs, and irony typical of Tuscany. The evenings are entrusted to amateur companies from the Empolese Valdelsa and surrounding areas—groups deeply rooted in their towns that have been keeping traditional theatre alive for years. The stage features a mix of plays written by Tuscan authors and adaptations that guarantee laughs for audiences of all ages, creating the festive atmosphere of a village fair that is central to the territory's cultural identity.

Eight shows between June and July

The 2026 edition, the second of the festival, offers eight shows from late June to late July, all starting at 9:15 PM. The performing companies hail from Empoli and nearby towns such as Monterappoli, Marcignana, and Vicchio, each bringing their own repertoire of brilliant comedies. A packed programme that enlivens Empoli's summer evenings with weekly appointments, often selling out due to the strong support of the local public.

Children take the stage: Torrione Kids

Alongside the dialect festival, the Torrione garden also hosts Torrione Kids, a free section dedicated to children and families with theatre performances on Thursday evenings. It is a wonderful opportunity to introduce the little ones to live theatre in a safe and intimate setting, under the stars of Empoli's historic centre.

A staple of the Empoli summer

Vernacolo al Torrione is part of Empoli's rich summer calendar, filled with music, theatre, and culture between June and September. The festival is organised by the Associazione Palcoscenici APS with the support of the Municipality of Empoli, and represents one of the most heartfelt events for those who love popular theatre and want to enjoy a unique evening in the greenery, just a stone's throw from the centre of this Tuscan city.