| Arts and culture
abound in Venice. The culture survives
on Venice’s grandiose past. Venice was the home of
Vivaldi and the center for the world of music during the 16th century.
Music is a large part of the Venetian culture. The PalaFenice
holds performances during the opera season, although it is sometimes overshadowed
by Verona. The Frari Church features recitals from May thru October,
except in August. A wonderful spot for viewing and listening to Venice’s
artistic talents is in the Scuola di San Rocca. The Accademia of San Rocco
performs Baroque music on period instruments regularly. Tickets can be
bought in person or by calling (941) 523-4864.
Theatre is also found
readily in Venice. The Venetian commedia dell`Arte,
performed at the Teatro Goldoni is a must see if you enjoy Venetian
comedy. Keep in mind, however, that opening night events normally
book well in advance, and you must reserve seats at the theatre’s box office.
If you are looking for a more alternative approach to theatre, the Teatro
a l`Avogaria has been offering experimental theatre since 1969. In keeping
with the ideas of Giovanni Poli, who was the theatres guiding light, they
do not sell tickets, but ask only that spectators offer a small donation.
Classical ballet can be found
at the PalaFenice, Tronchetto island. Other than this, there are no major
dance performances to be found in Venice.
If you are looking for film
venues, the Accademia, Calle Gambera, Dorsodura offers American and European
films, and the Giorgione Movie D`Essai holds over 300 seats and shows films
on a two screen miniplex in English on Thursdays.
The Biennale and the Venice
Film Festival are the major cultural events
for Venice. Originally founded in 1932 by Mussolini, the
Venice Film Festival is considered the second most
important film festival in the world. This festival takes place at the
end of August and proceeds for ten days. The Leon D`Or is the festival’s
highest accolade, and paparazzi, directors, and actors alike mingle in
hopes of receiving it. Films for the festival are shown at the Palazzo
del Cinema, the Lungomare G Marconi, and the Astra. Tickets are not sold
in advance, and must be purchased at the door. You should be able to find
out more information about the Venice Film Festival
from your hotel of choice, or by contacting the Venice tourist office.
The Biennale combines contemporary art from all around the world.
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