Join GINQ (Giovani Italiani Network of Queensland) in celebrating Italian Week as Queensland's Italian youth and the Italian Consulate join forces for "La Dolce Vita on the Mall" in Brisbane's City centred Queen Street Mall.

La Dolce Vita on The Mall - June 2nd 2009
Take on the big name Italian-Australians -  Michael Zullo, Danny Tiatto, Massimo Murdocca and Frank Farina - from the Brisbane Roar in our Table Soccer competition with prizes thanks to AusItalia.com and GINQ (Giovani Italiani Network of Queensland). DJ David Ferrini is joined by prominent local artist Mark Divola to present some of Italy's greatest dance tunes and some of Australia's best too!
Where:- La Dolce Vita on The Queen Street Mall
When:-  Midday to 3pm
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

Below are some more events suited to Italian youth but feel free to browse all of Brisbane's Italian Week 2009 events at www.italianweek.com.au/Events.html

Throughout Italian Week 26th May - 2nd June 2009  

Italian Films

Quiet Chaos @ Dendy Cinemas
Quiet Chaos is what Pietro Paladini has felt in his heart ever since his wife's sudden death. Pietro is a successful executive, happily married and father of a 10-year old daughter, Claudia.
One day, after having saved the lives of two women who were drowning, he arrives home only to discover his wife has suddenly died. From that moment on his life changes radically. More

Gomorrah @ Palace Cinemas  Power, money and blood: these are the “values” that the residents of the province of Naples and Caserta confront every day. They have practically no choice, and are forced to obey the rules of the “System”, the Camorra. Only a lucky few can even think of leading a “normal” life. Five stories are woven together in this violent scenario, set in a cruel and ostensibly invented world, but one that is deeply rooted in reality. AWARDS WON : Grand Prix Cannes 2008, Satellite Awards 2008, European Film Awards 2008 More

Leonardo da Vinci Machines Exhibition
Leonardo da Vinci dedicated himself with passion to scientific studies. His manuscripts, known as Codices, exhibit ingenuous solutions to practical problems of his time and he was able to imagine future possibilities such as flying machines and automation. Experience the incredible inventions of Leonardo da Vinci come to life in this outstanding interactive exhibition of finely crafted machines by the internationally acclaimed Artisans of Florence, The Exhibition, starting on the 5th of June introduces over sixty machines based on the original drawings of Leonardo da Vinci, featuring his amazing  machines.
Where:- Various Locations Around Brisbane Centre
When:-  Selected pieces during the entire duration of Italian Week. 

 Tuesday 26th May 2009  

La Traviata: Verdi, Opera Queensland
Presented by Opera Queensland  - La traviata retains a special place in the hearts of opera lovers. The tragic plight of Violetta Valéry, the beautiful Parisian courtesan who sacrificed her love for Alfredo when morally blackmailed by his father, drew from Verdi some of his most poignant and memorable melodies. This desperate tale of regret, sadness and unrequited love remains one of the most haunting love stories ever told. From the moment the curtain goes up you’ll fall in love with the glamorous life in gay Paris, the sumptuous costumes and the magnificence of Verdi’s celebrated score, ever-present in this ravishing production by Elijah Moshinsky. 
Where:- Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Bank, Brisbane
When:-  7.30pm 
More Information and Book Online Now 

Dinner from Lucca, Toscana
Restaurant owners/chefs Vittorio & Barbara Greco and will feature authentic dishes from the provincial city of Lucca in the Region of Tuscany. The suburban Cortina restaurant & pizzeria in Nundah has formed a reputation of simplicity, honesty & value in its menu since being acquired by husband & wife chefs Vittorio Greco & Barbara Fazzi. As both chefs have been trained and practiced in Tuscany, they are able to offer authentic antique dishes from the region which cannot generally be found in other local restaurants.
Where:- Cortina Pizzeria & Restaurant, 1185 Sandgate Road, Nundah
When:-  From 6.30 p.m. More Information and Menu for the evening
Cost:- $75 per -person which includes food and wines Book Online Now

Wednesday 27th May 2009

The Four Seasons - The Queensland Orchestra
Special appearance by an ensemble from The Queensland Orchestra – your state orchestra’. The Four Seasons (Italian: Le quattro stagioni) is a set of four violin concertos by Antonio Vivaldi. Composed in 1723, The Four Seasons is Vivaldi's best-known work, and is among the most popular pieces of Baroque music. The texture of each concerto is varied, each resembling its respective season. For example, "Winter" is peppered with silvery staccato notes from the high strings, calling to mind icy rain, whereas "Summer" evokes a thunderstorm in its final movement.
Where:- Queen Street Mall Stage
When:-  1.30pm 
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

L'Aperitivo @ Bella Cosi
Modern Italian Restaurant is proud to host L'Aperitivo, your host James McLean invites you to an evening of all things Italian with Music, Fashion and Italian Elegance. L'Aperitivo is a social event which is well established throughout Italy. From Milano to Monreale L’Aperitivo is an opportunity to get together in chic venues and enjoy pre-dinner drinks. Be entertained by the delightful Zosia Kilmartin. See the latest Italian Style shoes from Tom Gunn Designers.  Numbers are strictly limited so Book Online Now! 
Where:- Cosi Modern Italian Restaurant 22 Thomas Street, Chermside Brisbane.
When:-  From 5.30pm till 9pm 
Cost:- $59 per person which includes food, wines and entertainment.
More Information and Book Online Now 

Jan Powers 'Il Mercato' Italian Markets and entertainment
Local foodie Jan Power brings her famous Farmers Markets to Brisbane City at the top of the Queen Street Mall, Reddacliff Place. Buy the freshest fruit, crispest vegetables and leanest cuts of meat right here in the city. Whether you are a busy city worker, Queen Street Mall shopper, or visitor to the city, you will not only find the markets the perfect place to shop during your lunch break or on your way home, but also an exciting shopping experience with fabulous and exotic foods that are sure to delight.
Where:-Reddacliff Place, between Brisbane Square (the BCC building) and the Treasury Casino.
When:- 10am to 6pm
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

Italian Week Cup
As part of Italian Week 2009 celebrations, Brisbane City Football Club ‘Azzurri’ at Spencer Park Newmarket, will stage a tournament of ‘Calcetto’ 5-a-side Football , proudly supported and sponsored by Di Bella Coffee. The tournament will consist of 2 groups of 4 teams, playing in a round robin of 10 minute halves. Teams are to be made up of adult males, females or mixed and be named any region of Italy.  So grab some family and friends together and form a team and be part of this fun night. Relax on our Sunset Boulevard and enjoy a meal of Pasta and BBQ Pork Spare Ribs while watching the games. Registrations close on Sunday 24th May 2009.
Where:- 42 Newbery Street Newmarket Qld 4051
When:- Kickoff from 6.00pm,
Cost:- Registration fee is $200 per team. Read More

Thursday 28th May 2009

Barista Course at Di Bella
If you are a coffee enthusiast and want to learn more Di Bella Coffee will be running “The ultimate coffee experience” coffee appreciation courses. The course is suitable for hospitality workers, café owners, coffee aficionados and the general public. Whether your weakness is latte, cappuccino or espresso, you’ll learn how to make the perfect cup every time!  You will be given a factory tour and learn everything from the history through to how we roast coffee… Then to finish off you will participate in a traditional cupping session and learn how the experts taste coffee…. All proceeds go to support Italian Week events. Numbers strictly Limited to 20 people. Normally $150.00
Cost:- Italian Week promo $75.00 More Info
Where:- Di Bella Coffee Head Office, 82 Abbotsford Rd, Bowen Hills
When:-  From 3.00pm to 5.00pm - Book Online Now  

La Traviata: Verdi, Opera Queensland
Opera Queensland Presents - La traviata retains a special place in the hearts of opera lovers. The tragic plight of Violetta Valéry, the beautiful Parisian courtesan who sacrificed her love for Alfredo when morally blackmailed by his father, drew from Verdi some of his most poignant and memorable melodies. This desperate tale of regret, sadness and unrequited love remains one of the most haunting love stories ever told. From the moment the curtain goes up you’ll fall in love with the glamorous life in gay Paris, the sumptuous costumes and the magnificence of Verdi’s celebrated score, ever-present in this ravishing production by Elijah Moshinsky. 
Where:- Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Bank, Brisbane
When:-  6.30pm  
More Information and Book Online Now 

Highlights of Romeo and Juliet.
Radio 4MBS in conjunction with Italian Week presents highlights of Romeo and Juliet. William Shakespeare most famous ‘couple’ come together in spite of the from the unlikely rivalry of the Montague’s and Capulet’s. During Italian week see scenes from the "balcony scene", Romeo sneaks into the Capulet courtyard and overhears Juliet on her balcony vowing her love to him. See the famous swordfight scene and be enthralled by Italian Passion and Romance.  It was among Shakespeare's most popular plays during his lifetime and, along with Hamlet, is one of his most frequently performed plays. Today, the title characters are regarded as archetypal young lovers.
Where:- Queen Street Mall Stage
When:-   12.30pm and 1.30pm
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED.

Three Tenors - Pavarotti Viva
Take three likely lads: one from Ingham, one from Brisbane and one, originally from Naples – and you have the beginnings of a picture of the heritage of Queensland. But there is something different about these lads – they’re all tenors! And what else do they have in common? They love opera. Perhaps it’s the Italian in them! Or perhaps they are merely continuing where Donald Smith, the great Australian tenor from Bundaberg, left off. I can just hear that great tenor aria “Nessun Dorma” resounding through the cane fields. Inspired by Pavarotti, our three tenors provide a show that is full of joy and light-heartedness which will touch you with its emotion and generosity. Sponsored by Vavachi Entertainment
Where:- Queen Street Mall Stage
When:-   1.00pm
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

Friday 29th May 2009  

Italian Fashion Week
Italian Fashion on Show in the Queen Street Mall.
Italian Fashion Week is an event organized to promote Italian design and Made In Italy. Appreciated and valued the world over, Italian fashion and Style is has inspired countless designers and stylists. During Italian Week, Italian born designer Elio Marzullo owner and creative director of the label Elio Moda showcases Italian designs and Italian Inspired works from designers such as Subfusco and emerging stylists from Mount Gravatt TAFE fashion who have created a range of Italian Inspired designs.
Where:- Queen Street Mall Stage
When:-   6pm, 7pm, 8pm 
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED.

Highlights of Romeo and Juliet.
Radio 4MBS in conjunction with Italian Week presents highlights of Romeo and Juliet. William Shakespeare most famous ‘couple’ come together in spite of the from the unlikely rivalry of the Montague’s and Capulet’s. During Italian week see scenes from the "balcony scene", Romeo sneaks into the Capulet courtyard and overhears Juliet on her balcony vowing her love to him. See the famous swordfight scene and be enthralled by Italian Passion and Romance.  It was among Shakespeare's most popular plays during his lifetime and, along with Hamlet, is one of his most frequently performed plays. Today, the title characters are regarded as archetypal young lovers.
Where:- Queen Street Mall Stage
When:-  6.30pm and 7.30pm 
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

                                                 
Barista Course at Di Bella
If you are a coffee enthusiast and want to learn more Di Bella Coffee will be running “The ultimate coffee experience” coffee appreciation courses. The course is suitable for hospitality workers, café owners, coffee aficionados and the general public. Whether your weakness is latte, cappuccino or espresso, you’ll learn how to make the perfect cup every time!  You will be given a factory tour and learn everything from the history through to how we roast coffee… Then to finish off you will participate in a traditional cupping session and learn how the experts taste coffee…. All proceeds go to support Italian Week events. Numbers strictly Limited to 20 people. Normally $150.00
Cost:- Italian Week promo $75.00 More Info
Where:- Di Bella Coffee Head Office, 82 Abbotsford Rd, Bowen Hills
When:-  From 3.00pm to 5.00pm - Book Online Now 

Saturday 30th May 2009

Italian Fashion Week
Italian Fashion on Show in the Queen Street Mall.
Italian Fashion Week is an event organized to promote Italian design and Made In Italy. Appreciated and valued the world over, Italian fashion and Style is has inspired countless designers and stylists. During Italian Week, Italian born designer Elio Marzullo owner and creative director of the label Elio Moda showcases Italian designs and Italian Inspired works from designers such as Subfusco and emerging stylists from Mount Gravatt TAFE fashion who have created a range of Italian Inspired designs.
Where:- Queen Street Mall Stage
When:-   12pm, 1pm, 2pm 
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED.    

                                                   
Highlights of Romeo and Juliet.
Radio 4MBS in conjunction with Italian Week presents highlights of Romeo and Juliet. William Shakespeare most famous ‘couple’ come together in spite of the from the unlikely rivalry of the Montague’s and Capulet’s. During Italian week see scenes from the "balcony scene", Romeo sneaks into the Capulet courtyard and overhears Juliet on her balcony vowing her love to him. See the famous swordfight scene and be enthralled by Italian Passion and Romance.  It was among Shakespeare's most popular plays during his lifetime and, along with Hamlet, is one of his most frequently performed plays. Today, the title characters are regarded as archetypal young lovers.
Where:- Queen Street Mall Stage
When:-   12.30pm and 1.30pm
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED.

 
CO.As.IT Ball
Master of ceremonies Lou Greco Entertinment of Alfio and music by Undercover Cool Commencing 6pm.

Live entertainment with a six piece band and highlighted with a special guest appearance by charismatic 'Alfio Bonanno'. 
In the style of Michael Bublé and Il Divo, this contemporary songwriter of Italian background captivates with his melodious voice and creative talent.
Where:- Sofitel Le Grand Ballroom 249 Turbot Street Brisbane.
When:-  6pm (Pre-Dinner Drinks)
Cost:- Tickets $130.00 (4 course dinner and drinks)
Booking:-  Sofitel  

La Traviata: Verdi, Opera Queensland
Opera Queensland Presents - La traviata retains a special place in the hearts of opera lovers. The tragic plight of Violetta Valéry, the beautiful Parisian courtesan who sacrificed her love for Alfredo when morally blackmailed by his father, drew from Verdi some of his most poignant and memorable melodies. This desperate tale of regret, sadness and unrequited love remains one of the most haunting love stories ever told. From the moment the curtain goes up you’ll fall in love with the glamorous life in gay Paris, the sumptuous costumes and the magnificence of Verdi’s celebrated score, ever-present in this ravishing production by Elijah Moshinsky. 
Where:- Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Bank, Brisbane
When:-  1.30pm  More Information and Book Online Now   

Pasta and Gelato tastings - Angelo's Fresh Pasta Products
Join one of Brisbane’s best-loved Italian family businesses, Angelo’s Fresh Pasta Products for Pasta and Gelato Tastings.  2008 marks the 40th birthday of one of Brisbane’s best-loved Italian family businesses, Angelo’s Fresh Pasta Products. Angelo Cazzolato first started hand-making pasta under his house at New Farm in 1968. Since then, the business has steadily grown to become Queensland’s largest award-winning pasta producer. In Italy, eating quality pasta is a way of life. At Angelo’s we have the same belief, using only the freshest and finest of ingredients.
Where:- Angelo’s Fresh Pasta 22 Doggett Street Fortitude Valley Brisbane.
When:-  From 9.00am to 11.30am 
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

Sunday 31st May 2009

11.00am to 5.00pm - Tastes of Italy Food Fair
The name Italy conjures up images of dusty olive groves, rich soil, abundant harvests and big social gatherings. The best quality fresh food: prepared and shared amongst family and friends-without giving away too many of mama's secrets. Wine, beer, cheese, pasta, abundant fruit and vegetables, seafood and heavenly desserts; what more could there be to life? Passion! Italiana is about full-throttle living-with a laid-back attitude and sociability with a healthy level of competitiveness. Are you really passionate about family, food, wine and good company?
Where:- Reddacliff Place, between Brisbane Square (the BCC building) and the Treasury Casino.
When:-  From 11.00am till 5.00pm
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED.  

Italian Motor Expo in Reddacliff Place
Italian Motor Expo 2009 Queen Street Mall and Reddacliff Place For lovers of the sleek lines and high performance of Italian Motor vehicles, the Italian Motor Expo is not to be missed, whether you passion lies with cars or motorcycles, no one will be disappointed by the stunning array of fabulous motor vehicles on display. With the valuable assistance of the Italian Motor Vehicle Clubs we once again showcase Classic and contemporary Italian Motor Vehicles. Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Ducati, Maserati and Lamborghini's. The respective motor vehicle clubs put on display a range of Italian motor vehicles, motorbikes and scooters from private collections, dealers and distributors. A must for all lovers of Italian Design and engineering.
Where:- Reddacliff Place, between Brisbane Square (the BCC building) and the Treasury Casino.
When:-  From 11.00am to 5.00pm 
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

Sunday concert Lineup

11.00am Official Opening
Opening performance and introduction from the Consul of Italy
Where:- Reddacliff Place, between Brisbane Square (the BCC building) and the Treasury Casino.
When:-  11.00am
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

11.15am - Zosia Kilmartin
18 year old rising star, Zosia Kilmartin, is a classically trained singer. One of the highlights of Zosia’s career, to date, is her recent appearance at the annual Opera on the Mountain open air concert in May. This event featured Zosia along with 10 of Australia’s top opera singers including Andrew Pryor, Romano Dragoni and Katheleen Proctor-Moore.Zosia has also performed The Flower Duet from Lakmé on the Concert Hall Stage of the Queensland Performing Arts Complex. Furthermore,  Zosia even sang for Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in his electorate. Zosia's music appears on radio’s 4EB and SBS
Where:- Reddacliff Place, between Brisbane Square (the BCC building) and the Treasury Casino.
When:-  11.15am
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

11.35am  - Alex Ranieri
16 year old Alex Raineri currently studies piano performance with Leah Horwitz, OAM at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music and also studies composition with Gerard Brophy. In November 2008, Alex was awarded a distinction in his ‘Trinity College of London' LTCL exam and the ‘Top of the State’ award. Also in 2008, Alex performed Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue' with the Queensland Orchestra in the keyboard finals of the 'ABC Symphony Australia Young Performers Awards'.
Where:- Reddacliff Place, between Brisbane Square (the BCC building) and the Treasury Casino.
When:-  From 11.35am till 12.00pm 
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 

12.00pm  - Raffaele Pierno and Dominique Fegan performing a Tribute to Puccini 
Raffaele Pierno is a graduate of the Conservatorium Domenico Cimarosa in Avellino, Southern Italy. Graduated with a Diploma di Canto in 1998. He performed extensively across Italy including Concerts of traditional Neopolitan songs for the Mayor and the Cardinal of Naples in il Duomo di Napoli; tribute to “Enrico Caruso” 1995; “Messa di Gloria of Mascagni” with Lucia Tramontano (official accompanist at Teatro San Carlo).
Where:- Reddacliff Place, between Brisbane Square (the BCC building) and the Treasury Casino.
When:-  From 12.00pm till 12.45pm 
More Information:- FREE EVENT - NO BOOKING REQUIRED.