Venice-born Alessandro Bressanello is a name synonymous with the artistic soul of Venice and the Veneto region. With a career spanning over seventy films and forty years of theatre, his contributions to the performing arts have reached audiences in more than twenty countries. A founding figure in iconic Venetian institutions like TAG Teatro and Produzioni Teatrali Veneziane, he has brought the stories and spirit of his homeland to life on stage and screen.
It is an honour to speak with such a versatile artist, who has not only helped shape the cultural identity of Venice but continues to inspire with his boundless energy and creative vision. Today, we delve into his unique perspective on life in Veneto, his deep connection to the region, and his hopes for the future of this unparalleled corner of Italy.
From Venice to Mestre: A Tale of Two Worlds
Although Alessandro Bressanello was born in Venice, his family moved to Mestre when he was a child, a shift that offered him a unique view of the region.
“Mestre, during my childhood, was a vibrant and dynamic place to grow up, while Venice always felt like a magical connection to something special.”
This duality, living between two distinct places, profoundly shaped Alessandro’s perspective.
“Having these two such different points of reference has changed my life. On one hand, you have the modernity and everyday life of Mestre, and on the other, the uniqueness and timeless charm of Venice. It’s a contrast that taught me to appreciate both the energy of a new city and the priceless value of Venice’s history and traditions.”
A City at a Crossroads
As someone with deep roots in Venice, Alessandro is deeply invested in its future, although he’s uncertain about the city’s trajectory.
“I miss the Venice of my youth, but I know it can’t return to that. Mass tourism, speculation, and devastating political decisions make me pessimistic about what lies ahead.”
Alessandro’s concerns centre on the overwhelming presence of tourism and the lack of political leadership that prioritizes the city’s future.
“What Venice needs is someone in the city government who genuinely cares about the interests of its citizens and the city itself.”
He emphasizes. For him, the solution lies in drastic measures, such as stricter regulations on short-term rentals and a daily cap on the number of tourists visiting the city.
The Spirit of Veneto
When it comes to the broader Veneto region, Alessandro has a deep affection for its rich variety of landscapes and towns. Expressing how diverse Veneto’s charm is, he says,
“I really like Vicenza and Verona, as well as the Dolomites with their small villages.”
The region’s contrasting landscapes, spanning from mountains to coastline and vibrant cities to peaceful villages, give it an unmistakable identity. From a cultural perspective, Alessandro believes Veneto is unique for its combination of beauty and authenticity.
“Veneto is full of magnificent mountains and stunning coastlines, and the art cities are truly special. All of Italy has beautiful cities, but Veneto’s cities are among the best.”
His appreciation for the region extends to its culinary delights as well.
“We have culinary traditions that are absolutely unique, from bigoli in salsa to Amarone risotto, and of course, tiramisu. Every dish feels like a celebration of Veneto’s flavors.”
Creativity and Tradition
For someone in the arts, Veneto offers an inspiring environment for creative expression. Alessandro is quick to point out that the region’s cities and scenic spots have become iconic settings for filmmakers.
“Many films have been shot here, in cities like Venice, Verona, and Vicenza, and even in tourist destinations like Cortina or the Venetian beaches and mountains.”
The Veneto Film Commission, along with local commissions in various cities, continues to support and encourage the creative industries. Beyond its natural beauty, Veneto’s cultural traditions also offer an enriching experience for creatives. Alessandro particularly enjoys the village and neighbourhood festivals in Venice, which recreate the spirit of past times.
“These festivals are very stimulating for me; you get to spend evenings listening to music, enjoying traditional dishes, and meeting the locals. It’s a beautiful way to connect with the true essence of Venetian culture.”
Advice for Newcomers
As a lifelong resident of the region, Alessandro has plenty of advice for those considering making Veneto their new home.
“There are so many different places to choose from in Veneto, whether it’s the peaceful countryside, the bustling cities, or even the coastal towns.”
However, for him, the heart of the region will always be Venice. He also encourages newcomers to take their time exploring all that Veneto has to offer, from its hidden gems to its well-known destinations.
“My favorite place will always be Venice. It has truly unique characteristics that no other city can match. Veneto offers everything, from relaxing thermal baths in Abano Terme to beautiful beaches in Jesolo and Caorle, and the stunning mountains of the Dolomites.”
Looking Ahead: Preserving Tradition and Embracing Change
As Alessandro looks to the future of Veneto, he hopes to see a balance between preserving the region’s traditions and addressing the challenges it faces in the modern world.
“I hope that the political leadership in Veneto will take greater responsibility in preserving the traditions, the landscape, and the ability for locals to live in reasonably priced homes.”
Alessandro is concerned about the pressure of mass tourism and hopes to see it reduced to more manageable numbers.
“What’s most important is that the decisions being made benefit the citizens and those who want to live here,” he concludes.
Alessandro’s vision for Veneto is one of careful preservation, an approach that allows the region to thrive while maintaining the timeless beauty and traditions that make it so special.
Alessandro Bressanello’s reflections on life in Veneto offer a unique glimpse into a region that balances tradition with modernity and tranquillity with vibrancy. Whether it’s the stunning landscapes, the warmth of the locals, or the rich cultural history, Veneto presents a lifestyle that many dream of. As he looks toward the future, his hope for a region that preserves its charm while embracing sustainable growth underscores the delicate balance needed to protect what makes Veneto truly special.
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