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Italian dance raises £3000 for Alzheimer’s Society
An Italian Dance has managed to raise £3000 for the charity Alzheimer’s Society.
The event that happened on Saturday at Arnos Manor Hotel, is a traditional dance that has not been held locally in more than 20 years.
The event brought together Italians from all across Bristol and the South West, managing to sell out the venue with roughly 200 people in attendance, with further tickets being added to accommodate to the demand.
is needed now More than ever
… photo: Hannah Massoudi
Upon entering, the venue was signposted by balloon arch in the colours of the Italian flag. Italian sweets including pistachio, chocolate and lemon flavoured cannolis lay on the table.
A selection of Italian delicacies – photo: Atlanta Mercato
Further down a table with two Alzheimer’s Society representatives sat, with buckets and leaflets with information and advice on.
Red, white and green bunting lined the main rooms, whilst a disco ball tempted guests to the dance floor.
The nights activities included a raffle of locally donated items, including olive oil, wines, cheeses and meats.
A full selection of gifts to be won – photo: Hannah Massoudi
The dance was an annual event for over 50 years, bringing local Italians together whilst raising money for different charities. The annual dance is unique to the UK, but can be found across different localities in England.
Organiser Calogero Rizzo and Deputy Lord Mayor Paul Noggin, stood in front of Rosa Avera’s balloon decorations – photo: Hannah Massoudi
In a heartfelt speech, organiser Calogero Rizzo praised the new generation of Italians and Sicilians for attending.
In a statement he added, “I’m feeling overwhelmed and emotional with all of your help and support in raising £3000.
“I’m so proud of every single person that helped us achieve this, we have enough money to donate to the resident’s fund at Clearedon Manor Care Home, so they can have their own Italian themed party.”
He also gave a special mention to the individuals who contributed their services for free, including Maurizio Cocchiara who supplied them with PA systems and equipment.
Legendary Italian DJ Tony Mercato on the decks – photo: Hannah Massoudi
As well as Rosa Aversa of Party Balloon Events, who was responsible for the balloon decorations.
In response to being a part of the event she said, “being part of the Italian community, everyone sticks together, and then obviously I heard about the Italian dance and my mum had always talked about it.
“She was so excited that I was going to get to experience it.
“As soon as I knew it was going to be for charity, I had just started my business and I thought what better way to promote it within the community.
Reflecting on the cause that brought them all together she said, “I think it’s sad that there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and that you see your loved ones go through that. So, to be able to do something good, makes you feel good.
“I’m hoping we organise a few more of these, maybe get together a committee. It’s nice to do something good and have fun while doing it.”
Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, is just off the “toe” of Italy’s “boot” – photo: Hannah Massoudi
Guests were full of joyful spirit and enthusiasm for the night. Many commenting on what a fantastic night it had been.
Signing off on the event, Italian drag star Alyssa Van Delle said “Hopefully this will be the first of many, let’s not let this event die out, because we are a strong community of Italians in Bristol and I think we proved that tonight. Viva l’Italia.”
Main photo: Hannah Massoudi
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