Precarious Labor in Cultural Festivals: The Case of Santarcangelo

In Italy, the trend of 'festivalization' has significantly altered how culture is consumed, leading to a surge in performing arts festivals over the last fifteen years. Unlike traveling performances, these festivals can secure considerable public funding. The Festival di Santarcangelo stands out by merging theater with festival elements, appealing to both artists and industry insiders. A study by Tools for Culture, named 'Equilibri precari,' uncovered a varied workforce that frequently works without pay or under training agreements. Roberto Naccari, who directed from 1995 to 2004, referred to it as 'a small festival that simulates a big one.' Interns observed that the audience is largely ready for experimental theater. Issues include maintaining continuity for the main team and handling various contracts, while a protest by unpaid interns from a different festival underscored the precarious nature of these conditions.