Glamour and elegance at the ball

| Gail Sedorkin

A NIGHT of Italian elegance awaits everyone who attends this year’s gala ball – one of the highlights of the 2023 Cairns Italian Festival. It’s going to be a ‘bella notte’.

One of the most sought-after events this year, the Cinecitta Gala Ball is themed after the iconic film studio in Rome – the Italian Hollywood on the Tiber.

Held at the Pullman International in Cairns on August 4 it promises to be a night of glitz and glamour.

Gala ball organiser Patty Poutanen said guests will walk the red carpet and be transported to a world of Italian cinema and elegance, with patrons able to dance the night away to music from the 1940s through to 2023.

“It’s time for tuxedos and glittering ball gowns – it’s all about the glamour of these movies and being ‘movie elegant’ for this wonderful evening,” she said.

“Cinecitta is the Italian version of Universal Studios. It’s a symbol of all the glamour of the era.”

When planning the evening, Ms Poutanen has taken her inspiration for this central theme from her favourite glamorous Italian actor, Sophia Loren.

Entertainment will include Melbourne-based band Siesta Cartel, a massive hit in Cairns in 2022, DJ

Marciano and Turning Pointe Dancers.

“There will be a surprise element in the dances from Turning Pointe Dance Studios at the Ball. Two of the dances are based on Italian films while one is based on a very influential actor.

“Live band Siesta Cartel will be perfect for the evening. They are able to sing and play folk music that we can all remember, but they de - liver it in a modern style. Together with DJ Marciona, guests will party the night away.”

She said the venue would also be decorated with elegance, classic Italian touches, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the timeless glamour and allure of the Italian actors.

“With the dress code of glamour, you are encouraged to dress to impress, adding to the enchanting ambiance of the evening,” Ms Poutanen said.

“The Cairns Italian Festival Gala Ball is an event not to be missed.

It’s a unique and unforgettable celebration of Italian culture and cinema.”

On the evening, the Italian Hall of Fame awards and life member awards will also be announced – a ceremony which aims to recognise the achievements of Italians who migrated to Australia or come from immigrant families and have contributed significantly to the region in the diverse categories.

“These awards are so important. It’s our way to recognise people who have contributed in so many ways – to say thank you,” Ms Poutanen said.

“These people need to be recognised – this is a very important part of the evening.

At last year’s 2022 Carnival Gala Ball, the late Lou Piccone become the very first inductee of the exclusive life membership award in appreciation for his incredible generous contributions to Cairns and the surrounding region.

Award categories include community service award, farming and agriculture award, business recognition award, developing and building award, educational achievement award, sporting achievement award, arts and culture achievement award, and young Italian of the year.

Tickets are almost sold out for the Cinecitta Gala Ball which includes a four-course Italian meal expertly crafted by the Pullman International’s chefs, and a five-hour drink package featuring a selection of Italian wines and other beverages. Tickets can now be bought online at www. cairnsitalianfestival.com.au