Cultural Excursions
GRUPPO IT. promotes the joy and essence of Italian culture through food, art, history and music.
Cultural excursions are open to all students who currently participate in any Italian classes run by GRUPPO IT. at an additional fee.
Upcoming Excursions
November 2026
La Bohème
by Giacomo Puccini
There is a reason La Bohème remains one of the most beloved operas in the world. Composed by Giacomo Puccini, it tells the poignant story of young artists living in Paris, capturing the beauty and fragility of love, friendship and youth.
At the heart is the tender and tragic love between Rodolfo and Mimì, set against a backdrop of bohemian life filled with passion, creativity, and fleeting moments of joy. Puccini's music brings these emotions to life with extraordinary sensitivity, making every scene deeply human and profoundly moving.
This upcoming excursion to experience La Bohème at the Regent Theatre Melbourne offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most iconic works of the operatic repertoire - a celebration of art, connection and the enduring power of storytelling through music.
Past
March 2026
‘Master Fresh Pasta’
with Deborah Bourke
from Fare Italian Cookery School
There is something deeply special about making pasta by hand...
We had the pleasure of spending a beautiful morning at Fare Italian Cookery School with the incredibly talented Deborah Bourke, learning how to prepare three different types of pasta.
Making pasta is not just about cooking - it is about connecting with a deeply rooted Italian tradition, shaped by simplicity, rituals passed down through generations and a cultural richness that emerges from the most authentic of experiences.
It was also wonderful to see participants so engaged and joyful, sharing the fruits of their labour around the table, over a delicious meal and a glass of wine.
October 2025:
ST. ALi Italian Film Festival 2025
Private screening of 'Diamanti"
at Cinema Nova Carlton
Diamanti (Diamonds) is a richly layered film by Ferzan Özpetek, celebrating women, artistry, and the transformative power of creativity. Through the lens of a 1970s costume atelier, it explores personal battles, sisterhood, and the sparkling allure of cinema itself. Featuring a vibrant ensemble cast and imbued with nostalgia, emotion, and theatrical flair, it’s both a love letter and a tribute to the world of costume design and female solidarity.
Culinary Excursion March 2025:
'Autumn's Harvest at Rosa's Table'
Participants gathered for one of two evenings at Rosa’s Table in Frankston South. They were graced to a cooking demonstration by Rosa Malignaggi who shared her most sacred Sicilian recipes; recipes that have been handed down and brought to life from one generation to another. It was a pleasure to savour these dishes whilst listening to her family stories, rich with tradition and culture.
The menu was inspired by some of Rosa’s favourite family recipes as well as her recent culinary tour in Sicily.
Among the little treasure box of culinary delights were:
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Mamma Pina’s peperonata
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Bruschetta with caramelised figs, mozzarella di Bufala and basil
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Her mother-in-law’s pasta with cauliflower and a breadcrumb gremolata
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Zia Marianna’s almond biscuits
… all perfectly accompanied with ‘parecchi bicchieri di vino italiano!'
For further information on Rosa’s cooking demonstrations or culinary tours in Sicily, please visit her website www.rosastable.com
Cultural Excursion 2024: Discover Italy in Melbourne
Participants enjoyed a visit to Mediterranean Wholesalers in Brunswick. This is a gourmet food shop with a variety of Italian specialties. Participants were able to browse at their own leisure, enjoy a coffee, and purchase products of interest.
To delight the palate, participants had lunch together at Brunetti Classico, one of Melbourne’s iconic cafes, offering savory selections, traditional cakes, gelato, and the famous “Brunetti Classico” coffee. Participants then explored the sights and smells of Lygon Street at their own leisure.
Having recharged their batteries, participants delved into history with a guided tour of the Museo Italiano in Carlton. This is a permanent exhibition which draws on and displays the records, images, and objects from CO.AS.IT’s Historical Society. It represents the journey of Italian migrant families to Australia, from the early days of European settlement.
Armed with a thirst for knowledge, participants were introduced to the CO.AS.IT Resource Centre in Carlton. This is a well-resourced library which supports all the educational needs of teachers and students of Italian from pre-school through to tertiary level. Participants were able to browse the library at their leisure.
