Ciao Italy!

There’s an exceptionally strong Italian presence in Durban, strengthened by a society that prides itself on increasing the awareness of this marvellous warm culture. Lois Kuhle spends time with members of the Societa Dante Alighieri

It’s been said that Italians don’t eat to live; they live to eat! They also love to talk, sing and have an enviable passion for their culture.

Società Dante Alighieri is the international cultural society for the Italian community. In Durban, it has a strong presence managed by a committee of six enthusiastic members. Led by chairlady Sandra Sarno, it’s dedicated to ensuring courses are available not only to Italian descendants, but to anyone who has a yearning to learn this beautiful, melodic language.

Heading up the language division is vibrant Mariella di Natale. The school offers courses that form part of the curriculum of local schools, like Westville High, Umkomaas Primary, Futura High, Umhlanga College, Durban Girls’ College and Tree-Tops. There are also adult courses concentrating on communication skills and the cultural aspects of Italian civilisation.

“Our adult classes are never bigger than twelve people,” Mariella says in her beautiful accented English. “People come for all sorts of reasons, whether it’s because they have Italian heritage, or they want to visit Italy or maybe just to be able to order food in an Italian restaurant fluently!  We become a family and the classes are very social.”

Attendance is sometimes because of a passion for opera. Learning Italian cultivates a better understanding and appreciation of the music.

Students have also enjoyed the benefit of arranged cultural trips to Northern Italy and Sicily.

Italian cuisine is another sure way to share this lively culture. It is impossible to escape the all consuming, delectable Italian food that oozes richness and culinary excitement. Thanks to Antonietta Bellini you too could be the “momma in the cupboard”. Previously, cooking courses were held in the Spar Kitchen at Gateway, and the committee anticipates introducing them again in the near future.

Antonietta is also responsible for catering for fundraising functions.  The Society is predominantly self funding and major events are held throughout the year at the Italian Club in Durban North. The Club and Society are separate entities but support each other in all things Italian.

In 2009 Vanessa Mancini Ciarlatani, wife of the Italian Consul here in Durban, organised an art exhibition in collaboration with the committee called Italy through the Eyes of the Artist. They had an overwhelming response, with 65 artists submitting 110 paintings. The event also hosted a ladies’ breakfast with jewellery designer Kirsten Goss as guest speaker, and sold more than 230 tickets.  A favourite on the calendar is the Venetian Masked Evening, plus the end of year play held by the children. The KZN Youth Wind Band was also invited to a function and was a resounding success.

The ladies have promised an exciting calendar for 2010. In our modern global world it’s wonderful to be able to embrace the culture of other countries.  Società Dante Alighieri welcomes you to a taste of Italy!   R

For more information visit:  www.dante-kzn.org