The 2024 edition was record-breaking: over 160 events including concerts, talks, special projects, music contests, recitals, workshops, street performances, and exhibitions, drawing more than 115,000 visitors in just five days. It was the first edition curated by singer-songwriter Grazia Di Michele, who has been confirmed by Mayor Luca Salvetti to lead the upcoming 40th edition as well.

Following the 2024 theme, “Music from the World,” this year’s edition—running from Wednesday, July 30 to Sunday, August 3—will revolve around a new concept: CREATIVA – What Women Tell Us, a tribute to Fiorella Mannoia’s iconic song “Quello che le donne non dicono.” At the heart of this edition will be female creativity, celebrated in all its forms: a driving force behind music and dance, literature and visual arts, theater, craftsmanship, and every aspect of artistic and professional life. This vision, developed by the artistic director in agreement with the mayor, will once again be brought to life by Fondazione LEM.

The 40th-anniversary edition will feature international artists and invite both local and national creatives to submit proposals aligned with the theme, starting February 6 via the Effetto Venezia website. On that same day, the artistic director will meet with Livorno’s creative sectors to present the vision and ensure synergy between projects and theme. The schedule includes: 2:00 PM – dance; 4:00 PM – singing; 6:00 PM – theater.

Also on February 6, famed dancer Raffaele Paganini will be in Livorno to choreograph the festival’s opening show. He will also lead a masterclass for local dance teachers and three open-level lessons for students at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.