The aroma of freshly baked bread, the scent of blooming jasmine, or the distant echo of a Neapolitan song – these are the sensory threads that often weave the tapestry of Naples. But on a recent Friday evening, a different kind of tapestry was being woven at Villa Domi, one stitched with threads of smiles, music, and profound human connection. This was the scene of the 12th ‘Party of Smiles’, an event that transcended mere entertainment, becoming a vibrant testament to inclusion and the power of shared joy.
A Night Where Every Smile Mattered
Conceived and hosted by Angelo Iannelli, the ‘Ambassador of Smiles’ and renowned interpreter of Pulcinella, this annual gathering has become a beacon of hope and a highlight of Campania’s social calendar. Organized by the Vesuvius A.P.S. Association in collaboration with Villa Domi, the event on Friday, June 12, 2026, welcomed close to a thousand attendees, a record-breaking number that spoke volumes about its growing impact.
The heart of the evening beat strongest with the ‘Special Kids’, who took center stage, captivating the audience with their performances in song, dance, and shared moments. Their infectious enthusiasm and genuine joy were met with thunderous applause and well-deserved accolades, reinforcing the event’s core message of celebrating every individual’s unique light.
Iannelli, alongside Edda Cioffi, Erennio De Vita, and Emanuela Gambardella, expertly guided the evening as hosts, supported by the graceful presence of Misses Lucia Schiettino, Francesca Nastro, and Ludovica Cerracchio. The night commenced with a captivating fashion show by the Maria Mauro Fashion Academy, a beautiful tribute to women that set an elegant tone for the festivities.
Moments That Resonated
Among the many memorable moments, the performance by the ‘Amiche di Pulcinella’ (Friends of Pulcinella) garnered special recognition and applause. Another poignant highlight was the intervention of Francesca Catalano, representing the visually impaired community worldwide, who moved the audience with her rendition of a Pino Daniele song. Institutional support was evident with the presence of Camposano Mayor Francesco Barbato, who was also honored for his unwavering commitment to the community.
The most anticipated moment arrived with the presentation of the ‘Anima d’Oro’ (Golden Soul) Award to former Napoli footballer Gianni Improta, who received a heartfelt standing ovation. The guest list boasted a constellation of local personalities, including Marika Gambardella, Cosimo Alberti, Paolo Volpe, Enzo Acri, Franco Melidoni, Giampietro Ianneo, Massimiliano Cimmino, Enzo Nicolò, Rosario Scotti di Carlo, and Monica Pignataro, all of whom contributed to the evening’s vibrant atmosphere.
The fashion runway showcased an array of talent, featuring Mirre Macramè by Giovanna Castiglia, Lorenza Pizza with her ‘Colors of the World’ collection, AnnaPaola Couture, and Sherdana Collection by Olimpia Iodice. Musically, the audience was treated to performances by the celebrated Lucia Cassini, Ciro Marra, Fransi, and Gianluca Zeffiro, alongside the mesmerizing belly dancer Zaalima. The evening culminated in a lively finale led by the ‘Paranza Vesuvius’, who invited both the audience and models to join in a joyous celebration of traditional folk music.
A Vision of Beauty and Sharing
“The success of initiatives like the ‘Party of Smiles’ is not only measured by participation, but by the ability to break down barriers through beauty and sharing,” emphasized Angelo Iannelli. The renowned journalist, deeply connected to the Amalfi Coast where he is cherished for his extraordinary portrayal of Pulcinella, added, “My social commitment has always aimed to give a voice to those who often remain on the margins, uniting art, culture, and heart. Seeing so many people smiling together in prestigious venues like Villa Domi confirms that solidarity, when it becomes spectacle and emotion, is the most powerful language we have at our disposal.”
Beyond the main stage, the event also offered ‘artistic pathways’ curated by artists Catello Zanca, Ciro Ciccone, Nicola Zampella, and Claudio Torino, allowing guests to immerse themselves in visual creativity. A generous space was dedicated to local gastronomic excellences, featuring wines from Carranante, Matronae, and Moncristi wineries, and delectable sweets from Ciro Poppella and Pasticceria Vitiello.
The evening concluded with a toast dedicated to the patron saint of the day, Saint Anthony, followed by a dazzling fireworks display that illuminated the Neapolitan sky above Villa Domi, leaving a lasting impression of joy and unity.
Source: https://www.positanonotizie.it/it/notizie-lifestyle-47/napoli-party-del-sorriso-dodicesima-edizione-d-174617/article
