Bella Ciao - NAFA 2025

Christine Ibrahim’s Bella Ciao is a vibrant celebration of Italian music and culture that fuses operatic grandeur with circus spectacle and cabaret charm. Staged with passion and precision, this affordable yet ambitious production offers audiences a whirlwind tour through Italy’s musical soul, from Puccini’s soaring arias to the nostalgia of Italian-American pop.

Ibrahim commands the stage with vocal prowess and magnetic presence. Her renditions of classic arias, accompanied by elegant keyboard work, are moving, particularly her rendition of The Godfather theme. But Bella Ciao is no mere recital; it’s a theatrical experience. Ibrahim’s aerial silks performance adds a layer of physical artistry to her vocal talent, expanding the show’s breadth.

Joining her is circus artist Haley Mills, whose mastery of the Cyr wheel and hula hoop acts is quite astonishing. Her athleticism and grace brought gasps from the audience, and watching her spin, frankly, gave me a backache just imagining the effort. Together, Ibrahim and Mills create a dynamic rhythm that propels the show forward.

The musical selection is a delightful blend of operatic drama and pop nostalgia. Crowd favourites like Funiculì Funiculà and That’s Amore had the audience clapping, swaying and singing along, while moments of interactive fun, such as pizza spinning and playful banter, kept the atmosphere light and inclusive. It’s a show that invites participation, not just observation.

Though the production is largely seamless, a few minor timing issues between musical transitions and circus cues were noted. These are likely teething problems that will be ironed out in future performances. They did little to detract from the overall enjoyment, and the cast’s enthusiasm more than compensated.

Bella Ciao is a joyous, all-ages celebration of Italian culture that will leave you humming and smiling. And if you’re not particularly fond of Italian culture? Well, as one cheeky moment in the show suggests, you might just be told to “Shaddupayaface.”