In Valais, like many other regions, culture is becoming increasingly significant within the tourism sector. Cities without a distinct competitive advantage, such as a significant historical heritage, often leverage their cultural offerings to attract day trippers and showcase the unique aspects of their city.
Cultural events have the potential to foster a positive atmosphere and promote accessibility to art and culture for a wider audience. In Monthey, there is a growing interest in integrating culture and tourism to enhance its reputation as a cultural destination, moving away from any previous associations with being solely an industrial town.
This work aims to develop a unique and innovative cultural experience that enables individuals to explore the cultural sites in the town of Monthey.
The author and Monthey Tourisme, in collaboration with cultural actors, organised a series of five evenings called "L'Envers du Décor" which were held at various venues including La Bavette, Théâtre du Crochetan, Médiathèque, Malévoz Quartier Cultural, and the Kremlin.
These events took place during the months of October and November 2016. The subject comprises various components, including both theoretical aspects and elements related to the planning of social events. The initial section of the work provides an overview of the issue, the surrounding circumstances, and the approach taken in this project.
The literary review explores the various themes associated with cultural tourism, events, and cities. Following that, the town of Monthey and its rich cultural offerings are elaborated upon. A SWOT analysis is also conducted to present the various aspects of cultural tourism in Monthey, including its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
Next, we will explore a benchmark of successful small towns that have utilised culture as a means to revitalise their communities. Following that, the logbook provides a detailed account of the creation, preparation, planning, financing, organisation, communication, production, and evaluation processes involved in the cultural evenings of L'Envers du Décor.
In order to provide constructive feedback, a few recommendations are suggested for Monthey Tourisme to consider if they were to undertake a similar project in the future. A compilation of successful strategies from small towns that have utilised culture to revitalise their communities is showcased.
Following that, the logbook provides an explanation of the various aspects involved in the creation, preparation, planning, financing, organisation, communication, production, and evaluation of the cultural evenings of L'Envers du Décor.
In order to provide constructive feedback, a few recommendations are suggested for Monthey Tourisme to consider if they were to undertake a similar project in the future. A compilation of successful strategies from small towns that have utilised culture to revitalise their communities is showcased.
Following that, the logbook provides an explanation of the various aspects involved in the creation, preparation, planning, financing, organisation, communication, production, and evaluation of the cultural evenings of L'Envers du Décor.
In order to provide constructive feedback for future projects, a few recommendations are suggested for Monthey Tourisme to consider if they were to undertake a similar endeavour again.