Dreamland Happening Animates Matera's Sassi Ahead of 2019 Capital of Culture

On August 26, 2017, a day-long happening called 'Dreamland – sogno di una notte nei Sassi' took over the Sassi di Matera, organized by Paolo Irene and Francesco Cascino. The event featured music, stilt walkers, fire-eaters, and storytellers, recreating the atmosphere of ancient festivals once held by peasants who lived in the Sassi. It aimed to revitalize the alleys and honor a forgotten history: in 1951, residents were forcibly relocated from the Sassi with a promise of return after sanitation, which never occurred. Later, UNESCO World Heritage status led wealthy buyers to acquire the abandoned homes, displacing original owners. The happening was part of initiatives for Matera 2019, when the city becomes European Capital of Culture. It had no fixed program, allowing performers free interaction with the public. The event concluded at dawn with a performance by visual artist Filippo Riniolo. Cascino emphasized active participation over artist celebration.