The beating heart of Sanremo

I have had a lifelong affection for the festival. I fondly remember watching it with my family on the opposite side of the hemisphere. For my family, Italian music served as a powerful connection to home. Music gave us a sense of cultural belonging that transcended distance.

To truly understand the allure of the Sanremo Festival, one must venture into the breathtaking landscape of the Riviera dei Fiori outside the hubbub and bustle of the festival week. But as an Italian-Australian singer-songwriter from Melbourne now residing in Milan, I was keen to offer Segmento readers a front-row seat to the vibrant spectacle of Sanremo.

While Sanremo boasts a plethora of events throughout the year, including the iconic Milano-Sanremo cycling race and the historic Casino of Sanremo, the Sanremo Song Festival truly takes center stage. Transforming the city into an entertainment hub akin to Las Vegas, the festival emerges as a vibrant tapestry of culture and ingenuity—a pulsating platform where dreams come to life.
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While the Ariston Theater serves as the festival’s focal point, it merely scratches the surface of the bustling activity unfolding throughout the City of Flowers. From rankings and first listenings to gossip and anecdotes, Sanremo becomes a sprawling community united by a shared passion for music—a truly national event that captivates the nation.

As the festival unfolds, everyone becomes an expert in music, lyrics, fashion, and commentary, immersing themselves in the magical atmosphere that momentarily transports them from the trials of daily life. The festival invites participants to dream and live as if they were artists themselves, contributing to a unique and exhilarating experience.

From early-morning chats over coffee to late-night revelry aboard the dazzling cruise ship—the festival’s remote venue—Sanremo comes alive amidst its glittering lights. There’s a sense of camaraderie that transcends the ordinary, inviting all to revel in the joy of artistic expression.

While the festival garners widespread attention, there are parallel events that offer a glimpse into Sanremo’s multifaceted cultural landscape. From the Sanremo Christian Festival to the “Sanremoin” evening hosted by Novella 2000, each event adds depth and richness to the festival experience, showcasing the city's vibrant spirit of creativity and innovation.
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The Ariston Theatre becomes an impregnable fortress surrounded by security and media personnel. Yet beyond its walls lie bustling streets adorned with radio trucks and eager fans eagerly awaiting the arrival of their favorite artists.

This year’s edition witnessed a departure from traditional Sanremo Festival fare, with each artist infusing their unique identity into their performances. Under the expert guidance of Artistic Director Amadeus and Fiorello’s incomparable showmanship, the festival evolved into a mesmerizing spectacle that captivated audiences nationwide.

In a surprising turn of events, the Gen Z generation dominated the top spots—a testament to their ability to connect with audiences and convey their sentiments through music. Angelina Mango, 22 yearold prodigy from a lineage of musical legends, emerged as the victor, showcasing not only her vocal prowess but also her stage presence and artistry.
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Raised in a household steeped in music, Angelina’s victory culminated in a poignant rendition of “La Rondine,” performed in homage to her father Pino Mango, which capitvated audiences and solidified her status as a rising star.

As the festival drew to a close, one thing was abundantly clear: the Sanremo Song Festival continues to profoundly influence Italy’s cultural landscape, inspiring generations of musical artists, and highligting the transformative power of music—a universal language that transcends boundaries and unites us all.

Images provided by Gisella Cozzo