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Venetian Weekend in Monte Carlo
2011-02-17 17:04
Given the proximity of Monaco to Italy, and the splendour of its Belle Epoque architecture, it's no surprise to find the Principality celebrating in true Venetian style from time to time.
Indeed, for the weekend of 11 and 12 March, as if magically transported to the other side of the Italian peninsula, visitors in Monte Carlo will find themselves
serenaded by the Orchestrina Strauss, just as they might be while
nurturing an espresso at Florian's or sipping a Bellini at Harry's Bar.
For these two days, Monaco's Place du Casino
will become the Piazza San Marco, and the terraces, restaurants and
gaming rooms of Monte Carlo will take on the appearance of the City of the
Doges during Venice's spectacular Carnival. People always gather for an
elegant 'passeggiata' as the spring weather beckons, but on this
occasion you're as likely as not to be accompanied on your way by
pierrots, harlequins, and even the Prince of Love himself, Giacomo
Casanova.
Programme
Friday 11 March
10.30am-12 noon
Procession of Venetian clowns in the Place du Casino.
1.30 pm to 3 pm
Concert by the Orchestrina Strauss, with a parade of costumes and Venetian masks in the Place du Casino.
5.30 pm to 7.30 pm
'Venice Café' procession in the hall of the Casino Café de Paris
Grand procession and entertainment between the Place du Casino, the Hôtel de Paris and the Casino Café de Paris
Grand Concert with the Caffè Concerto Strauss Orchestra from the Piazza San Marco in the gardens of the Casino: "Garden of Delights" with Casanova.
Entertainment, dance and audience participation.
Saturday 12 March
10.30am to 12 noon: procession and entertainment with Harlequin and Columbine accompanied by Casanova, in the Place du Casino
4.30pm to 6pm:
Grand Procession, entertainment and concert in the Place du Casino. The Grand Procession will cross the whole square to the Jardin des Boulingrins for a Venetian concert.