NEW DELHI: Purana Quila seems to have become the centre for cultural diplomacy in Delhi. After US President George Bush’s address, it is the turn of Parma Royal Theatre Orchestra, the Teatro Regio of Italy to perform at the old fort with a full group of 60 members.
Antonio Armellini, Ambassador of Italy, while addressing a press conference ahead of the show, said, “Playing at the historic and beautiful Purana Quila will provide a memorable evening, highlighting the strength of Indo-Italian friendship through a selection of operatic arias sung by two of Parma’s lyric stars.”
Teatro Regio is Italy’s oldest symphonic institution and known for operatic activities in the midst of historic settings such as the Colloseum.
On their first trip to India, the group will make history as they will be the first international group to perform at the Purana Quila.
Sant Kaul, chairman Delhi Tourism, said, “Earlier, we only concentrated on indigenous festivals at the Purana Quila. But we want to explore the wide possibility it allows for spectacular cultural shows. The ASI has finally made it possible for international groups to perform there.”
The Orchestra, which is being brought to India by ICCR and the Italian Cultural Centre will also travel to Mumbai and perform at the Jamshed Bhabha Theatre. Pawan K Verma, Director General, ICCR, said, “Using historical treasures for cultural activities are a remarkable idea.”
