Last Sunday I watch a direct transmission from L’Arena di Verona on RAI Uno entitled “Lo Spettacolo sta per Iniziare” on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy.

This two-hour long programme, ably presented by Antonella Clerici, consisted of popular opera arias sung by well-known sopranos and tenors of international fame. The programme also included the participation of singers such as Lucio Dalla, Gianni Morandi and Riccardo Cocciante, to name just a few, reminding listeners of their great hits. The famous arena was packed to capacity with people of all ages.

My point is: Did any one of the thousands of local critics realise that this great event was performed in an open-air theatre? Do so-called experts like Kenneth Zammit Tabone, FAA’s Astrid Vella, our renowned tenor Joseph Calleja and the like realise that all this took place in the huge uncovered arena which also has the best acoustics one can expect? No one feared the rain and the thousands present enjoyed every second of this spectacular evening!

This live show vindicated the government’s dream of rebuilding the defunct opera house on Renzo Piano’s exceptional designs. 

All this after more than 60 years of controversy and failed attempts.

Henry Calleja

ST JULIAN’S