PERTH – Last year marked the 20th anniversary of the Italian Festa at St Damien’s Catholic Primary School in Dawesville.
Italian teacher, Laura Bava, was once again able to organise a memorable day for this important edition, aiming to celebrate not only the language, but also the art, music, history and culture of Italy.
The opening greeting this year came directly from football legend Zlatan Ibrahimović, who sent a message dedicated to the students at the school.
He was followed by a video from Pope Francis, in which the Pontiff emphasised the importance of safeguarding and protecting our planet, a message echoed throughout the assembly with songs and dances by the students.
In the presence of the Italian Vice-Consul in Perth, Emilio Sessa, and Joe Bartucciotto, a Catholic Education officer in Western Australia, as well as a large audience of excited parents and grandparents, the children performed Italian songs, including liturgical hymns such as Laudato Sii which was interpreted by the Year 4 students.
The Year 5 students performed an Italian version of Shakira’s hit song Waka Waka, while the Year 6 students recited Funiculì Funiculà, a classic Neapolitan song.
After the performances by the younger students, who sang about seasons, food and the importance of eating well to stay healthy, all the students spent the rest of the day trying out bocce and football before sitting down to enjoy the flavours of Italian cuisine and admire Italian cars on display for the occasion.
Once again, the Festa was a demonstration of the passion that accompanies the teaching and learning of the Italian language at this small school and within its community.
