Undici settembre vernedì ( September 11 Friday)

Bel tempo a Lucca (Beautiful weather in Lucca). Non abbiamo camminato le mura (We didn't walk the wall).

I was feeling under the weather so did not have an appetite. Think about this - in Italy with no appetite – being punished for something. We went to get some drugs (meds instead of meals today) and they are working but, not fast enough for me. Dow is helping me get through this. Walked to the wall and bought tickets to “Italy loves America” a 9:00 concert tonight. It was in memory of 9/11.

I slept most of the afternoon and began to feel better. No dinner just left overs for Dow.  Siamo andati il concerto alle venti uno (went to the concert at 9:00 pm). We are in Italy so the concert started at 9:35. First there were speeches then finally music. The first part A was Italian Opera and Broadway music. Then part B was Rock Opera (Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar).  Finally Part 2 was wonderful songs by Franc D'Ambrosio. Franc D'Ambrosia has been on Broadway for years, best known for playing the Phantom in "Phantom of the Opera" and for his role in "Godfather III" in which he sang the theme song ( won an Oscar and a Grammy). Though from the Bronx, he had studied in Lucca, and was returning to a stage and city he loved.  He  was fabulous, especially when did music from The Phantom! Program is below. He was the Phantom for 10 years. Great voice - the concert ended at 12:10 am. Very good plus we had box seats.  Everyone was "dressed to the nines" - must have been locals as tourists don't bring formal clothes!  Really nice  evening!

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