Venice wears many masks — some glittering, some dark.

In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with David Hewson, Philip Gwynne Jones, and Gregory Dowling, the brilliant minds behind the Venice Noir Festival. Together, they unravel how mystery, crime, and the haunting beauty of the lagoon intertwine to create a festival unlike any other.

From the secret alleys that whisper of centuries past to the logistical labyrinth of organising a noir event in the world’s most theatrical city, this conversation dives deep into the art of storytelling, the magic of place, and the pulse of Venice itself — elegant, elusive, eternal.

• The origins and vision behind the Venice Noir Festival
• Why Venice is the ultimate noir city — beauty and danger intertwined
• How three celebrated authors became cultural curators
• The delicate balance between tourism, art, and authenticity
• Writing Venice: how the city itself becomes a living, breathing character
• The challenges of organising a festival on the water (and under the fog!)
• The future of noir in Venice — and beyond the lagoon

✨ Credits:

Hosted by Monica Cesarato

Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media

Guest: David Hewson, Gregory Dowling and Philip Gwynne Jones

Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform — and do not forget to follow, rate, and share to keep the stories of Venice alive in every shadow and reflection.