Karl Stefanovic takes the stage alongside winery owner Bill Calabria. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Karl Stefanovic sang a Johnny Cash classic and Shannon’s Dance Studio (SDS) performed an Italian folk dance as part of a packed program at an Italian-themed event hosted by Calabria Family Wines on Saturday (August 29).
The sold-out Italian Gastronomy Vino and Salsiccia Festa was one of many events held during Griffith’s annual A Taste of Italy week.
Stefanovic, a friend of winery owner Bill Calabria and a regular visitor to Griffith, took to the stage and made self-deprecating jokes about the demise of his mainstream TV career and rebirth as a podcaster.
His brother Tom, a Griffith-based almond producer, was also at the event.
“The bar will offer a 5 per cent discount to anyone who subscribes to my podcast,” Karl joked.
He also praised the skills of his accountant Roy Spagnolo and the town.
“Griffith is one of the great places, I love coming and visiting … I just hope the farmers get a water allocation this year.”
Stefanovic among Shannon’s Dance Studio performers. Photo: Supplied.
He then sang Johnny Cash’s Folsom Prison Blues, backed by Calabria and Spagnolo on guitar.
“I won’t give up my … ah, oops,” he said at the end, mocking his lack of a day job.
He then mingled with the large crowd and was stopped regularly by locals wanting selfies with him.
The Griffith appearance came with the former Today show host in the headlines since leaving Channel Nine earlier this year following controversy over an interview with British far-right figure Tommy Robinson on his podcast.
But on Saturday, he was in a lighter role — helping introduce the local talent taking part in the Italian celebrations.
The Calabrias brought out two roasted pigs and shared them with the crowd free of charge. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Stefanovic introduced a Shannon’s Dance Studio troupe, which performed the Tarantella, an upbeat folk dance that originated in southern Italy.
Ella Butcher, 11, was a key part of the ensemble.
“Taking the stage in front of so many people can be scary, but I like it. It’s great to perform traditional Italian dances,” she said.
“I’ve been dancing since I was three years old and love everything about it. I want to be a professional dancer when I grow up, but if not, I’ll become a hairstylist.”
Dancer Ella Butcher and her mum Melissa. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
The star-studded band Memory Lane, featuring winemaker Joe Casella, Sam and Tennyson Davey, Joe Musitano, Jenna Wooland, Calabria and Spagnolo, then performed a series of rock classics and the Italian version of Gloria.
The Calabria event was one of the highlights of A Taste of Italy Griffith, which ran across the city from 24 to 30 August.
The annual festival honours Griffith’s strong Italian heritage through food, wine, music and cultural events, with locals and visitors coming together for everything from Italian cooking and wine experiences to dancing and traditional celebrations.
