“Cinecittà” Gala Ball
When
Where
Cost
Inclusions:
Cinecitta
Cinecittà is an iconic film studio complex located in Rome, Italy. In its past, it was a hub of Italian and international film production Cinecittà is a symbol of the enduring legacy of Italian film and its impact on global culture. Hollywood and Universal Studios of Italy
Venue – Pullmans International
The Cairns Italian Festival’s Cinecitta Gala ball, will be held at Pullman Cairns International, promises to be a glamorous event that should not be missed. With the hotel’s elegant ballroom, convenient location, and exceptional service, guests can expect a night filled with sophistication and luxury. The combination of the festival’s Italian flair and Pullman Cairns International’s upscale offerings will create a memorable and stylish gala ball experience that is not to be missed.
Chef Bios
Chef Simon Capewell
“I have been a chef for over 25 years. My passion for experiencing different cultures through food. It is what drove me to the industry. It’s been a rewarding journey that has shaped me into the professional chef l am today. Working with many great chefs from around the world such as Michel Roux Snr and being invited to work at the River Cafe London has given me unique perspective into the culinary industry. I have lived in countries such as Brunei, Belize and Anguilla to have a first-hand experience of flavours, textures and philosophies. I have attended food workshops with Gordon Ramsay and worked alongside some of the greats such as Pierre Koffmann, Peter Gilbert and Donovan Cooke. I love being a part of creating a memorable dining experience for people. An experience they will talk about for years to come because the food created by dedicated chefs has touched all their senses.”
Pastry Chef Ashleigh Otto
Born and raised in lush tropical Cairns, North Queensland, Australia. From a young age i was always involved in the kitchen with the family creating and baking. Discovered my true passion for cooking throughout the schooling years, and progressed quickly into a pastry kitchen from which began my career at age sixteen. From then my passion and drive continued to grow; competing and being awarded multiple medals in local and national competitions to then joining the Culinary Youth Team to compete in the Food Hotel Asia in Singapore to represent Australia.
“Pastry is magic and endless creativity. I’m deeply passionate about contributing to the community to share my mastery and give an experience to remember. I’m constantly surrounded by inspiration and imagination for the next dessert.”
Menu
“The dessert for the Italian Gala draws inspiration from traditional Italian flavours and showcases a modern twist. It features a mascarpone mousse with espresso-soaked sponge fingers, offering a delightful combination of creaminess and the rich aroma of coffee. A chocolate crumble adds decadence, while a coffee ganache intensifies the coffee flavour. The dessert also includes a honey panna cotta with strawberry soup for elegance and freshness, an orange wafer for a crispy texture, and a lime meringue for a tangy element. The overall creation aims to combine traditional Italian flavours with modern techniques for a memorable culinary experience.” -Ashleigh Otto, Pastry Chef
Sparkling
The sparkling wine included in the package is the Divici Prosecco DOC from the Veneto region of Italy.
Red Wines
The package features two types of red wine:
- Vernaiolo Chianti DOC 2019 from Chianti, Italy
- Trediberri Barbera D’Alba made from Barbera grapes
White Wines
For white wine lovers
- The Pala I Fiori Vermentino Di Sardegna DOC from Sardinia
- Tre Stelle Greco-Fiano
Beer
Beer options in the package include
- Byron Bay Premium Lager
- Hahn Super Dry
- James Boags Light
Those who prefer non-alcoholic options can choose from a range of soft drinks and juices.
Entertainment
Frank Dangelico – Master of Ceremony
Frank established various organisations and hosted and organised countless events to help ensure the preservation of Italian culture in Australia.
In 2016 he performed in the Opera Queensland production of “The Barber of Seville” at the grand opening of the Munro Martin Parklands.
Frank also performed two roles in ”Beginnings” – one as a singing Italian cane cutter called Giovanni, and one as Jeremiah the landlord in the Malaytown scene.
He trained with Opera Queensland in Brisbane in 2017.
In 2018 he performed in the Opera Queensland production of “Ruddigore” in the Munro Martin Parklands and co-produced “Sunday at Six”, a presentation artworks and songs featured on the TV show “Countdown”.
In his spare time, Frank is the lead singer and guitarist with the band “The Southside Band” which performs regularly in Cairns.
In 2021 Frank, along with colleagues Kathryn Ash, Roz Pappalardo & Rubina Kimiia co-wrote and acted in Jute Theatres production of “La Bella Figura”, a complete season sell out and breaking all previous box office records.
Frank has owned & operated “The Wine Tradition NQ” since 2007 where he distributes wines from around the world (with a heavy focus on Italy) to restaurants and venues in North Queensland.
Frank, along with his wife Bec contribute significant hours and support to many locally based charities & organisations.
He has also recently become a Nonno to grandson Beau Bentley Francesco Dangelico
Dj Stefano
Siesta Cartel
Siesta Cartel are a unifying musical movement led by a group of young Italians from Melbourne whose hearts beat to the music they play from a time long ago, where their beloved traditions was born. On a mission to unite all Italians in Australia with the music that helped raise them and they still love today.
“The sound of that music reminds me of my heritage. That sound today is Siesta Cartel”
Turning Pointe Dance Studios
Cairns Italian Festival 2023 at Pullman Cairns International
To celebrate the Cairns Italian Festival 2023, Coco’s Kitchen + Bar at Pullman Cairns International has curated a special 3-course Italian feast that will be available for the duration of the festival.
Booking is essential. Click here to book your table now.
