Our StorySomArte is a festival dedicated to contemporary movement and collective wellbeing, held amidst the historic beauty of Novi Velia. In its inaugural edition, the festival establishes itself as a vibrant meeting point where high-quality performance, dance cinema, and multimedia art converge to celebrate the universal language of the body.
The festival is led by Mobius Dance & Atelier, a creative collective committed to transforming the cultural landscape through the power of movement. For its first year, SomArte is curated and directed by Gianluca Vincentini, who brings years of experience programming renowned theatres in the UK and international festivals in Spain, and Fabiano Culora, a specialist with over 25 years of expertise in health and somatic practices. Together, they bridge the worlds of professional performance and somatic wisdom.
For two days, we create a "pop-up" world within the Ex-Abbey, turning ancient walls and hidden corners into stages. By bringing art into the heart of the community, we dissolve the barriers between artists and the public. Whether you are a first-time explorer of movement or a professional dancer, a local resident or a visiting artistic director, SomArte offers a space to engage, interact, and be inspired.
Inclusivity is our foundation, and we believe that movement belongs to every body, regardless of language, age, ability, or background. No prior experience in dance or well-being is needed to participate; the festival is an open invitation to witness world-class performances, join workshops designed for all levels, and meet national and international artists in a friendly, communal environment. It is a place for the professional to refine their craft and for the newcomer to discover the body’s wisdom for the very first time.
More than an event, SomArte is a catalyst for connection. By hosting global artists and fostering local collaborations, we aim to build a society that is more free, welcoming, and open to difference. We are proud to put Novi Velia on the global stage, creating a lasting cultural exchange that celebrates our shared human experience and fuels the cultural heart of our region.
ALL EVENTS ARE DONATION BASED
20 June 2026
Discover tranquility and balance with Somatic Restorative Yoga, designed to release deep-seated tension and enhance bodily awareness.
Join us for a unique, multi-dimensional movement experience that blends studio movement inquiry, outdoor exploration, and collaborative filmmaking. This workshop is designed to awaken your creativity, and foster deep connection with the environment and those around you.
Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening at the Ex-Abbey open-air stage, featuring a live performance by Danni Cook and three special short film from Mobius Dance's acclaimed 'Encounter Series.'
21 June 2026
This guided workshop is a direct invitation to explore movement. Through simple, playful exercises, you will focus on what feels comfortable and natural for you, using that relaxed awareness to connect with the room and the people around you. Come explore, play, and feel more present in your body.
Led by Fabiano Culora, our Authentic Movement classes bridge the gap between bodies and stories, the conscious and the unconscious.
Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening at the Ex-Abbey open-air stage, featuring a live performance by Danni Cook and a special short film from Mobius Dance's acclaimed 'La Passeggiata’.