Antonella Clerici Brings Christmas Cheer With Live Dinner Show
Celebrated chef Massimo Bottura joins star-studded line-up for festive event airing December 23
On December 23, Rai 1 will host the much-anticipated "Cena di Natale," showcasing Italy's rich culinary heritage and the warmth of Christmas spirit. Spearheaded by beloved host Antonella Clerici, this live event will originate from two historic studios in Milan, combining elements from the popular shows "È sempre mezzogiorno!" and "The Voice Kids." Clerici's vision for the program emphasizes the importance of the Christmas table ritual rather than just focusing on specific traditional dishes, aiming to highlight the essence of shared experiences during holiday gatherings.
Highlighting the program’s festive nature, viewers can expect lively performances from musical legends such as Gianni Morandi and Stefano De Martino, who will join forces for the first time to create unforgettable moments filled with interaction and spontaneity. “I have no precise ideas about what will happen,” Clerici remarked, leaving room for creativity and excitement, ensuring the show promises to be emotionally engaging.
Adding to the delightful atmosphere, the adorable young singers from "The Voice Kids" will serenade the audience with classic Christmas carols. Joining them to uplift the festive spirit will be notable figures from the entertainment world, including comedian Katia Follesa, celebrated singer Nek, and the lively Paola Iezzi, all contributing their talents to the joyous occasion.
The show aims not only to entertain but also to educate about Italy’s culinary traditions during the Christmas season. The renowned chef Massimo Bottura will prepare traditional holiday tortelli live, sharing the stories and significance behind various dishes, particularly emphasizing the need to minimize food waste during festive times.
Beyond food, the broadcast will feature cultural segments, including a story from acclaimed Italian writer Alberto Angela about the 18th-century Neapolitan nativity scene at the Basilica dei Santi Cosma e Damiano, connecting viewers with Italy's rich traditions. Meanwhile, Francesca Fagnani will be live from St. Peter’s Square, chatting with Cardinal Mauro Gambetti on the eve of the opening of the Holy Door and the Jubilee inauguration.
The culinary theme of the evening will be complemented by humor from Katia Follesa, insights from Alessandro Siani about Italian cuisine around the globe, and festive tablesetting tips from Enzo Miccio. The collaborative spirit of the show aims to unite various Italian culinary customs, illustrating how Christmas serves as a bridge between generations and cultures through shared meals.
Ending the evening on a high note, the celebration will feature spontaneous interactions among guests to reflect the warmth and joy of the holiday season. After the live broadcast, Clerici plans to take time off to relax before resuming her daily shows on January 6, as Brazil gears up for its own vibrant summer celebrations.
Clerici is known for her warm, engaging hosting style, and "Cena di Natale" marks yet another opportunity for her to showcase her passion for food and family traditions. The event underlines the significance of culinary rituals during Christmas, allowing audiences to reminisce about personal experiences tied to family faves during this sacred time of year.
All eyes will be on the screen at 21:15, when viewers can immerse themselves in the holiday magic, reminding us all of the importance of both culinary delights and human connections during this special time of year.
