Centrale Fies: A Hydroelectric Plant Turned Performance Art Hub

Centrale Fies, a former hydroelectric plant in Dro, Trentino, has been transformed into a multidisciplinary art center specializing in performance art. Founded fifteen years ago by Barbara Boninsegna and Dino Sommadossi, the space spans 3,000 square meters across five rooms and serves as a production center, residency, and coworking space. It hosts the Drodesera festival, the Live Works performance art award, and a free summer school for performers. A unique private performance art collection, Collezione Fies, focuses exclusively on live works and avoids fetishizing objects. The center also runs Fies Core, a spin-off applying cultural thinking to business and public administration projects. Recently recognized by the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage as a creative residency center, Centrale Fies emphasizes sustainability and cross-sector collaboration. Key figures include Virginia Fies Sommadossi (communication), Barbara Boninsegna (artistic direction), and Filippo Andreatta (international relations).