Into the past... August 12
Stefano, Steve and Roberto
Into the past...
It was an emotional trip to Adria on Friday 10th August, revisiting the scene of Genesis' first gig in Italy, a mere 40 years ago. Memories flooded back of that first visit as I arrived in the picturesque town near Venice fed by various waterways.
It was like entering a time warp as so little had changed. Along with Jo and pals, I stayed in the same hotel as before. The thing that really brought it all back for me was stepping on to the deep stage of the plush operatic Teatro Comunale. Originally Genesis only played to about 200 people there, whereas the celebration of the event outside the theatre now drew thousands. The streets were filled with people listening to the various musical homages to Genesis al fresco, the songs wafting over the river that runs through the town. As a special guest at the event beforehand I talked to the mayor, answered questions and met fans following a brief impromptu acoustic performance...
I'd especially like to thank Roberto Paganin for organising the event and all his hospitality as well as Mario Giammetti of Dusk magazine for all his help. It was great to spend time with all those involved. Their hospitality included a couple of sumptuous meals as well as a special trip around the archaeological museum, courtesy of Fiorenzo Fuolega. It was heart warming to connect with so many pals, including Vania of Blue Sky, Mario and Ada, Angéla and Maurizio, Michael, Nick and Peter, as well as Roberto, Ludo, Stefano, all organisers, fans and friends, including Andrea whose family recently suffered in the Italian earthquake.
Whilst in Italy Nick, Peter, Jo and I took the opportunity to squeeze in a quick visit to Perugia, a favourite hilltop medieval city with spectacular views over Umbria. In the footsteps of Indiana Jones we explored a few ancient Etruscan tombs, literally underground dwellings for the dead. Friar Maximilian kindly showed us around the monastery at Assisi. A big thank you to Silvio and Riccardo for their extraordinary generosity. It was fabulous to connect with them along with Mino and Stefania, Laura and Guiseppe, Conny and Stefano, Massimo, and several other wonderful Italian friends.
Viva Italia! I always want to return...
Mario and Steve
Steve inside the Theatro Comunale
Steve and Vania
Roberto, Steve, Ludo, Nick, Stefano, Peter, Maurizio and Angela
Nick, Stefania, Mino, Laura, Steve, Silvio (in front), Guiseppe, Peter
Jo and Steve in Perugia
Steve and Perugia vista
