The President of the Republic, H.E.Mr. Bajram Begaj awards the title “Naim Frashëri” to scenographer Gaetano Castelli
The President of the Republic, H.E.Mr. Bajram Begaj awarded the title “Naim Frashëri” to the well-known Italian scenographer Gaetano Castelli, with the motivation: “In appreciation of his unique contribution to Albania, by materializing in different stages his magic in scenography. As a sign of gratitude to the scenography icon of Italian television for the promotion of Albanian art, as well as for his contribution to the encouragement of young people who aspire to the art of scenography, painting and architecture.”
At the ceremony held on this occasion, President Begaj appreciated the personality of Castelli, saying that “Long before Mr. Castelli came to Albania and collaborated with the “The Magic Song” (“Kënga Magjike”) Festival, we knew the stage designs he created. Every time we saw Sanremo, we were not only moved by the songs. The magic started before the music; it started when we faced the stage, which was always a work of art, and which most of the time bore the signature of Mr. Castelli”, President Begaj said.
The Head of State underlined the contribution of Mr. Castelli in the scenography of many Italian television shows that have marked an era for the Albanian public, or even the design of theaters stages all over the world, from Las Vegas and Paris to Cairo. “When Ardit Gjebrea and Klan television told the Albanian public that they would start a collaboration with Mr. Castelli, it was applauded by all the art lovers, that this world-class master would create dream stages, even for the Albanian public”, President Begaj further said.
The President closed his remarks by expressing gratitude for the work of Mr. Castelli, for the passion and the extraordinary example that he conveys to his colleagues, as well as for the willingness he has shown over the years to help the Albanian youth to learn a little bit of his mastery.