From January 12 to March 23, the town of Bertinoro will host 'I Pomeriggi del Bicchiere 2025,' a vibrant cultural series combining literature, music, and delightful tastings. This annual gathering is organized by the Municipality of Bertinoro and promises to celebrate both the literary world and the local gastronomic delights.
The series will consist of eleven Sunday afternoon events at the Teatro Novelli, each scheduled for 15.30. This year's program was unveiled during a press conference attended by several prominent figures: Bertinoro's Mayor Gessica Allegni, Culture Officer Sara Londrillo, and the director of the 'Dante Alighieri' music school, Ivan Bratti.
According to Mayor Allegni, "I Pomeriggi del Bicchiere will provide wonderful literary and musical experiences, fostering community engagement and appreciation for culture." She emphasized the importance of blending artistic expression with local traditions.
The events will feature esteemed authors presenting their works, alongside musical performances and tastings of local wines and products. Each session is crafted to explore various themes and genres, ensuring something for everyone.
On January 12, attendees can look forward to the first session featuring Pierdante Piccioni, the real-life inspiration behind the popular television drama known as 'Doc.' Piccioni, now a primary care physician and university lecturer, will discuss his latest novel 'Io ricordo tutto,' which delves deep within the realms of memory and personal experience. Notably, he underwent a life-changing incident when he fell ill and lost his memory—an experience he recounts vividly through his literature.
For this special afternoon, the music will be provided by the Stefano Nanni Trio, who will bring their unique sound to complement Piccioni’s poignant storytelling. Attendees will also enjoy sampling high-quality products from the Loretta Nardini olive oil brand and wines from the Bissoni vineyard. Remember, reservations are required, and entry is free until seats run out.
On January 19, acclaimed children’s author Stefano Bordiglioni will present his latest work, 'La congiura dei Cappuccetti.' Coining his background as both teacher and writer, Bordiglioni plans to engage the audience through his storytelling and musical performance alongside musician Marco Versari. This afternoon will also spotlight local culinary delights from the Pro Loco Fratta Terme, showcasing artisanal salami and piadina paired with wines from the De Stefenelli winery.
The series continues on January 26 with the presentation of Tea Ranno’s novel 'Un tram per la vita,' centered around the true story of Emanuele Di Porto, who survived the Ghetto of Rome's WWII atrocities. To commemorate the Day of Remembrance, this session will also feature klezmer music from Siman Tov and tastings from the Mambelli dairy. A sobering yet uplifting narrative is sure to resonate with the audience.
February will bring even more compelling narratives. On February 2, Giorgio M. Ghezzi will share insights from his recent book 'Quell’estate del 1980,' interweaving personal and historical events shaped by the turbulence of the times. Musical accompaniment will be provided by the D.A.Jazz Orchestra, enhancing the experience with their jazz renditions.
On February 9, Nicoletta Verna's novel 'I giorni di vetro' will take center stage, exploring the theme of violence through historical lenses set during fascism. Guests can enjoy music by JoLì & Co, creating reflective moments through haunting melodies during this poignant afternoon.
A notable engagement will occur on February 16 when Federico Benuzzi presents his ‘Matematica e Gioco d’azzardo’ performance. The physicist and entertainer seeks to educate the audience on the serious matter of gambling addiction through a fun and interactive format, enjoying delicacies from Agrestia organic farm and Giovanna Madonia wines.
On February 23, Antonella Presutti will discuss her book 'I sopravvissuti,' which captures the haunting history of Villa San Michele. This poignant reflection on displacement will also feature musical accompaniment from Eloisa Atti and Marco Bovi.
March will start with the third edition of the Dante Arfelli Literary Prize, recognizing notable published works and welcoming engagement with theater productions celebrating literary merit. Participants can sample products from local vendors and wines from Maria Galassi's vineyard.
The closing session on March 9 promises to be empowering, as Maristella Lippolis narrates her latest work, 'Donne che non muoiono,' which showcases stories of resilience among women facing violence. The musical intermission will highlight female vocalists celebrating women’s contributions to art, culminating with tastings from Villa Trentola wineries.
The final day on March 16 will spotlight Enrico Novelli, also known as Yambo, discussing literature aimed at young readers and the impact he has made on Italian cultural heritage. This is bound to be enriched with culinary offerings from the Strada dei Vini and Vignaioli.
Overall, 'I Pomeriggi del Bicchiere 2025' is set to be not just an event but rather a festival of community spirit and cultural appreciation, inviting everyone to partake freely, relish local flavors, and engage with stories shaping the Italian narrative.