Sport and theater come together to highlight the beauty, history, and traditions of the village of Villanova d’Albenga. The well-known non-competitive running event, CammiCorsa, introduced the CammiCultura this year, an itinerant theatrical performance crafted by the Teatro della Tosse di Genova. This performance took place in the picturesque alleys of the village.
This initiative was brought to life by the Municipal Administration in collaboration with the Associazione Antiche Vie del Sale, with support from the Fondazione Compagnia San Paolo under the “Territori in Luce” grant. The aim was to enhance the value of the area and its traditions, drawing a diverse audience, even from outside the province.
The event’s success was made possible through the involvement of associations, volunteers, and local committees, who enlivened a wide Street Food area. The CammiCorsa engaged athletes, walkers, and families along a route that wound through alleys, ancient walls, and the new athletics track. At the end of the race, each participant received a medal and had the opportunity to join the innovative theatrical route.
Until 5:00 PM, the alleyways were alive with stories tied to Villanova, narrated by five actors strategically placed at key points. Among the tales shared were the tradition of the water on Via Garibaldi and the legend of the Chicken Island. Other narratives explored themes such as the faith of the Confraternity of Saint John the Baptist and the touching story of Andrea Schivo, a Villanova native honored as a Righteous Among the Nations. The event concluded with a recount of the traditional violet cultivation in Vico Ponte.
Mayor Pietro Balestra emphasized the importance of passing on a heritage of values and solidarity to future generations. “We entrusted the Teatro della Tosse with the stories of our community, and they transformed them into beautiful monologues,” Balestra stated.
Director Amedeo Romeo, alongside councilor Tamara Grossi, gathered the stories from books and local witnesses. “We are grateful to everyone who, in various ways, made this day possible,” Grossi expressed.
At the end of the performance, the actors were presented with the book “Lune e Santi Patroni” by Luciano Siffredi. The event showcased how sports and theater can enhance the cultural and scenic heritage of small villages.
The success was achieved thanks to the collaboration of numerous associations and volunteers, with Marco Dottore and Enzo Antinoro for entertainment, Monica Napoletano for her valuable collaboration, and support from local sponsors such as Emanuele Durando, Farmacia Ranaldo, Supermarket PAM, Impresa Edile Mainetto, Impresa Cerruti Spa, Bruno Basso, Ligure Infissi, Baseco, and Ferrari Impianti.
