Addison — A west-suburban summertime tradition returns to Centennial Park in Addison Thursday, August 18 through Sunday, August 21. Little Italy Fest-West 2016, a celebration of Italian food and entertainment, will have a somewhat different twist this year. There will be a special salute to…The Bronx, New York!
“A Bronx Tale is probably my favorite film,” said event producer Ron Onesti. “I go to Arthur Avenue in ‘Da Bronx’ every year and have many friends there. Two of my very good buddies are Chazz Palminteri, who wrote and starred in the film, and Louis Vanaria, who portrayed ‘Crazy Mario” in the movie. I have not only invited those two guys to the festival, but I am also bringing other entertainers from the Bronx as well!”
Although admission to the event is $8 for adults with kids 15 and under free, the “Prima Notte” (first night) on Thursday is free admission as is Saturday and Sunday noon until 3 p.m.
The Bronx Wanderers are a returning fan favorite, and will headline Friday, Saturday and Sunday night. Bronx natives father, his two twenty-something sons and their band have rocked this event for the past six years, performing the best of The Four Seasons, Dion & The Belmonts, Queen and Coldplay. The band has a variety of material and an electric personality that keeps crowds of all ages on its feet.
Other entertainment highlights include an “all-star” Italian band consisting of members of other popular Italian-style groups and an “all-star” tribute to the women who shaped Rock ‘N Roll, including Pat Benatar, Joan Jett and the band HEART, starring Diva Montell. Another local favorite, Tony Ocean returns with his variety band, and comics Pat Capuzzi and Vito Zatto will keep the audience in stitches on Saturday and Sunday.
Aside from Vanaria, who will perform some Sinatra-stylings with The Bronx Wanderers, coming from New York will be Sonny Averona, Jr. and Johnny Bones, who do a musical/comedy salute to Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. Avarona, Sr. was a big east-coast name in showbiz, headlining at Caesars Palace in Atlantic City just prior to his death in the early 90s. Tre Bella, “Three Beauties,” who sing all the hits from Connie Francis to the biggest female stars out today, will also join in the fun.
There will be a special salute to local legends, Johnny Maggio, Jack D’Amico and Tony Spavone. These are three entertainers who have performed individually all over the country during a still thriving career spanning well over thirty years each.
Other featured performers will include “The Jersey Girls,” four incredibly talented young ladies touring the country with a very, “Vegas-style” review and super-tenors Simon Kyung Lee & Franco Martorana will share their incredible salute to Pavarotti and Puccini.
Attractions include a carnival (no admission fee required), “Meatball” wrestling, a boxing exhibition, kids’ pizza making, recipes from local grandmas (Nonna’s Kitchen), a cannoli eating contest, a charity grape stomp competition between the Addison Fire Department vs. the Addison Police Department, and a noon mass on Sunday honoring family members lost. A first-responder from NYC will accept a special honor for his participation in 9-1-1 rescue efforts; a salute to local Italian American War Veterans; and “Pets & Vets” organizations is also scheduled. Carnival ride specials and other kids’ activities will be featured also.
“And the food will be fabulous,” Onesti said. “The smell of garlic and sausage on the grill will fill the air, with over forty items on the menu. A new, expanded coffee and dessert bar will definitely be a highlight of the event!”
The event is located behind the Marcus Theatre on Lake Street, one light east of Rohlwing Road. Hours are Thurs. 5-10 p.m., Fri. 5-11 p.m., Sat. noon-11 p.m. and Sun. noon-10 p.m.
For more information and a complete schedule of events and entertainment, call 630-962-7000 or visit oshows.com
