As part of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World, the Italian Trade Agency hosted Il Gattopardo Gala Night at the Royal Automobile Club of Australia.
The Gala was held in collaboration with the Italian Embassy in Canberra, Co.As.It., the Dante Alighieri Society of Sydney and Studio De Luca.
The evening, inspired by Tomasi di Lampedusa’s Il Gattopardo (The Leopard) and by Italian culinary tradition, brought together many members of the Italian community, association representatives and guests from across the city.
Guests were invited to dress in outfits reminiscent of the book’s era, with the option of black tie for those who preferred a simpler approach.
The event was hosted by Julia Zaetta, a long-standing journalist and editor in the Australian media landscape, who guided the evening with professionalism and poise.
In her opening remarks, Simona Bernardini, director of the Italian Trade Agency in Sydney, thanked guests and her team, and highlighted Italy’s bid to include its cuisine on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Bernardini stressed the importance of continuing to promote Italian food culture around the world.
Among those in attendance were several figures from the Italian community and local associations.
One of the speakers, Concetta Perna of the Dante Alighieri Society, offered an insightful overview of the cultural context of Il Gattopardo and the life of Tomasi di Lampedusa.
Other representatives from cultural and community organisations also contributed, emphasising the value of Sicilian culinary and literary heritage.
The evening was further enriched by a reflection from chef Luigi De Luca, who spoke about the role Italians abroad play in representing and safeguarding traditional cuisine. Despite some recent health challenges, De Luca led the kitchen with professionalism, dedication and a genuine love for Italian food culture.
He reminded guests that Italian gastronomy is “a language, a story, a landscape”, and encouraged everyone to protect it from the distortions often seen abroad, promoting authenticity through commitment and collaboration.
The program included a menu inspired by Il Gattopardo, perfectly in tune with the cultural theme of the evening.
Overall, Il Gattopardo Gala Night offered a meaningful moment of connection and visibility for the local Italian community, contributing to the broader celebrations of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World.
Dining and Cooking