SPLF Testimonials

For reasons related to my research and third mission activities, which have long been dedicated to Irish studies (particularly in its cultural, literary, and musical manifestations), I am well acquainted with and have great appreciation for Max Roveri and his tireless dedication to Things Irish. The San Patrizio Livorno Festival is one of his most vital and visionary creations, which I have had the opportunity to closely experience by participating as a speaker at the effervescent and passionate 2023 edition. It deserves support: I am certain that it will continue to grow in the coming years, bringing prestige to the presence of the Emerald Isle in Italy.

The SPLF was a near perfect experience on all levels. The venue was ideal, a beautiful old 1950s era Italian cinema, great stage, size and acoustics, equally suited to spoken word and music performance. The organisers ensured that all logistics, from travel to food and accommodation, were seamless. Myself and the other artists felt totally comfortable and at home, free to collaborate and experiment. The food and wine was extraordinary. We made many new friends, and were delighted to see the cultural attaché attend on multiple nights. We couldn't have been better looked after. The performances themselves were among the highlights of my year.

The SPLF festival in Livorno was a wonderful experience that I will not forget. I loved the inter-collaboration that happened between music and spoken word, between languages English, Irish and Italian, between authors and academics and audience and performers. Magic happened that was tangible to everyone who was lucky enough to be there. The venue was perfect and the staff in Ex-Cinema Aurora could not have been more accommodating and welcoming. Catherine and Max were the perfect organisers and looked after the participants every need. Of all the festivals I have played at over the world- this festival stands out as one of the best. GRMA Catherine and Max. It was really special.’

SPLF was an absolute joy, while this incarnation of the festival was a couple of years in the making due to the unmentionable, I'm delighted we got there in the end. Catherine, Max and the SPLF team understand what artists need; good food, good company and good wine. With these in place, everything else seems to fall naturally into place. However, this is not to belittle their hard work. Their dedication was evident, and it became clear how much this festival means to them. It was their passion that convinced me to buy into their vision, and I am immensely grateful for their skill in crafting such a thoughtful and enjoyable festival program. The venue was simply perfect, the audience was engaging, and the spirits were high throughout. I can only imagine that each iteration of SPLF is as delightful, given that the essential building blocks are already there. I extend my best wishes for their future versions of the festival and feel privileged to have played a small part in this one. Bravo!

The San Patrizio Literary Festival in Livorno was a wonderfully collaborative creative experience that will last long in my memory!

I found San Patrizio Livorno Festival very distinct in its style and approach, making it all the more fascinating. I had a wonderful time engaging with the Italian audience who had a keen curiosity about Irishness and Gaeilge (Irish language). It was great and important to be a part of the festival in showing a new perspective to a new, diverse Ireland through poetry and discussion.

The San Patrizio Livorno Festival is a wonderful institution – and by now it can truly be described as an institution – and I wish it great success. The Ex Cinema Aurora saw the dawn of something great, on which I have no doubt the Livornian sun will continue to shine brightly.