Il Circolo, the Italian Cultural Society, recently sponsored an “Italians Got Talent” event at Palm Beach Atlantic University. More than 120 guests attended. After an introduction by President Paul Finizio, the program began with a slide presentation by Executive Director of Friends of Uffizi, Lisa Marie Browne, who gave a history of the gallery, its construction and present-day views.
Next, Dr. Emanuele Pettener, professor of Italian Studies at Florida Atlantic University, gave a comprehensive review of his experience as a native Italian coming to the United States. Emanuele never ceased to capture his audience with his inimitable sense of humor.
Barbara Salani addressed the audience by giving a brief history of her heritage including a composer uncle and phenomenal, performer father. She and her brother, Sergio, then gave an outstanding performance with the two of them on one piano.
The performance was followed by world-renowned tenor, Carlos De Antonis, whose emotionally performed singing of familiar Italian folk songs, brought the guests to standing ovations. The afternoon ended with Carlos De Antonis leading the audience in the singing of O Sole Mio. Cheers and tears ended the event.
