On the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the Unification of Italy, on Friday, November 11, 2011, I Love Disco is organizing in Florence: the Grand Ball of Italy. Under the patronage of the City of Florence and the Teatro della Pergola Foundation.
An unprecedented Grand Gala, featuring dance, music, entertainment, and ’70s-’80s I LOVE DISCO animation, held directly inside the prestigious Teatro La Pergola—one of the oldest in the country. For one night only, the theater will transform its stalls into a dance floor to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Unification, alongside the new chapter of this historic Florentine theater, which recently came under the ownership of the City of Florence.
GUESTS: a parade of stars, artists, and celebrities from the world of entertainment. Among the beauties who have made our country famous: Martina Colombari, Lory del Santo, and Miss Italia nel Mondo (who personified Italy). From the world of music and television: Stefano de Donato (of Dirotta su Cuba), Jo Squillo (host of TV Moda), Cinzia Lenzi (a historic face of ’80s TV), Gianfranco Monti, and Cesara Buonamici. A special guest, essential for the Grand Ball of Italy: Prince Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy.
CULTURE: I LOVE DISCO events are known for their artistic direction, scenic design, and dance troupe choreography. Teatro La Pergola itself provides an extraordinary setting—the ideal event and venue to enhance the fusion of genres: an exclusive and glamorous mix of music, dance, fashion, and culture.
For the occasion, a museum itinerary was organized inside the theater under the patronage of the City of Florence. In collaboration with La Nazione, an exhibition of covers from the historic newspaper was set up to remember and celebrate the History of Italy (La Nazione was founded in 1859). Special thanks to Teche Rai for providing the video material (Italian news events, historic TV programs and personalities, sports, etc.) projected during the evening.
MUSIC: The Grand Ball was opened by the chamber music quartet of the Florentine orchestra, accompanied on the piano by Maestro Riccardo Sandiford and Russian mezzo-soprano Anastasia Boldyreva. A medley of some of the most famous Italian arias, from Verdi to Mascagni, and from Morricone to Nino Rota. The waltz by Nino Rota, made famous by the film The Leopard, opened the dancing. The royal box was set up for the I LOVE DISCO signature DJ set (’70s-’80s disco music).
Special thanks to the City of Florence, Mediaset, Rai, and La Nazione.
