The rich and diverse musical culture of Italy and the hidden vocal talents of Shanghai's expat community will be on display at a special fundraising event on Friday.

Malone's in Pudong will provide the backdrop for some of the best amateur singers taking on favorite Italian tunes in an effort to raise funds for disadvantaged and disabled children.

It is the fourth year the China-Italian Chamber of Commerce has run the Italian Song Festival.

The event will celebrate 40 years of Italian history by showcasing images from movies that have become icons of "La Dolce Vita" and the Italian lifestyle, and by performing a range of popular classic songs.

CICC Manager Elena Tosana said songs were well known because they related the development of Italian society and culture.

"The singers will be performing songs that all witnessed and expressed the progress of our society and culture and that became evergreens, a unique legacy to each one of us," she said.

In the past the festival has taken the form of a contest. But this year participation is open to CICC members, their families, friends and anybody who is passionate about Italy's rich culture, friendliness and party atmosphere while also supporting a good cause.

Artistic directors Ermanno Cima Vivarelli and Alice Cosulich have been conducting auditions and have a stellar lineup of local stars ready to provide lively and entertaining performances of well-known Italian songs.

Malone's in Pudong has a capacity of more than 1,000 people, ensuring performers, who will be backed by a live band, will have a big crowd to play to.

Tickets are selling fast and are available from a number of outlets including the CICC Shanghai Office and a range of Italian restaurants in Puxi and Pudong.

These include Bella Napoli, Da Marco, La Dolce Vita, That's Amore and the venue, Malone's in Pudong.

Tickets are 150 yuan (US$22) and include one welcome drink. All proceeds will be donated to charity.

The event starts at 8:30pm. Further details are available by contacting CICC staff at sh.events@cameraitacina.com.

Italian Song Festival

Date: October 10, 8:30pm

Venue: Malone's Pudong, No. 17, 2/F Thumb Plaza, 199 Fangdian Rd, Pudong

Tickets: 150 yuan, including one drink

Tel: 5033-6717

(Shanghai Daily October 8, 2008)