By Staff Reporter
The National Museum, in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy in Muscat, celebrated the culmination of the 24th Edition of Italian Language Week in the World with a distinctive theatrical performance entitled “The Faerie Tale of Venice and the Incense Trade Route through Dante Alighieri’s Words.” The event was honored by the presence of Jamal al-Moosawi, Secretary General of the National Museum, who presided over the proceedings.
In his welcome address, Jamal al-Moosawi underscored the significance of language as a bridge between cultures and its role in linking the past, present, and future. He remarked, “Language is more than just a means of communication; it is a vessel that carries culture, history, traditions, and art. Through language, the past is connected to the present and the future. In our rapidly globalizing world, languages foster understanding, tolerance, and cooperation.” Al-Moosawi reaffirmed the National Museum's dedication to promoting cultural diplomacy and expressed gratitude for the event that fortifies the bonds between Oman and Italy.
Pierluigi D’Elia, the Italian Ambassador to Oman, emphasized the cross-cultural significance of the performance. He stated, “The Faerie Tale of Venice and the Incense Trade Route is a multi-disciplinary creation that integrates photography, literature, poetry, and documentary film, originating from a collaboration between Italian and Omani professionals. This artistic initiative not only celebrates the cultural exchange between our nations but also provides a unique opportunity for young Omani poets.”
The theatrical performance, “The Faerie Tale of Venice and the Incense Trade Route,” follows the journey of two travelers across Oman, inspired by the enchanting scent of incense. It explores the idea of an “ideal journey,” resonating with the rich cultural heritage of both Italy and Oman. The event concluded with a short film adaptation of the tale, aimed at igniting a passion for poetry among Omanis.
This was an artistic project conceived and carried out by Luca Moretti and Lucia Oliva, celebrated authors and artists much appreciated in Oman. This amazing project by Luca Moretti and Lucia Oliva (images by Luca Rajna) was also previously brought by the Omani Ministry of Heritage and Culture at the ongoing Venice Biennale 2024, in the Oman Pavillion.
Italian Language Week is an initiative spearheaded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation through its embassies worldwide every October. The event centers around a specific theme, forming the foundation for an extensive cultural program designed to promote the beauty of the Italian language and encourage its study. Over the past twenty-four years, this initiative has provided individuals globally with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Italy, its language, and its culture, thanks to the involvement of local cultural institutions participating in various activities such as conferences, lectures, and language courses. For 2024, the selected theme is “L’Italiano e il Libro: il mondo tra le righe” (Italian and the Book: The World Between the Lines), which highlights the profound connections between the Italian language and literature.
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