Dedicated in 1930 as "a symbol of the contribution of Italian culture," the Italian Cultural Garden hosted opera concerts in the 1930's and 1940's.
In 2008, Joyce Mariani led the effort to revive the concerts for the public and to showcase two of Italy's highest art forms: opera and ballet.
The annual Opera in the Italian Cultural Garden was held on Sunday July 27, 2025 and featured The Cleveland Opera and the Cleveland Ballet Theater with almost two thousand in attendance. People came early and set up picnics - some very elaborate.
Matteo Silvaggio Little Italy Wines provided free wine and Orlando Bakery offered free Italian sandwiches.
Matteo Silvaggio Little Italy Wines 
Orlando Bakery table with Robert Lippucci
 Fox 8's Tino Bovenzi served as the MC
Here are some more photos from the event.
Performers Julie Anna Gulenko and J.R. Heckman
Nick Orlando, Basil Russo and Joe LaMantia
Cleveland Ballet Group - Michael, Maria and Hugo
Dozia Krislaty, Dorota Sobieska and Connie Adams
From the Island of Salina
Tom Berardenelli and friend Marietta
MC Tino Bovenzi with sister and girlfriend
Some of the volunteers
Harriet Russell and her
99 and one half year old father Anson
Basil and Pat Russo
Pamela Dorazio Dean and Joe LaMantia
The Italian Zone
Save Water, Drink Wine
Opera supporters
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