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WASHINGTON, DC - With a unanimous vote, the U.S. House of Representatives today passed legislation introduced by U.S. Representative Henry E. Brown, Jr. (SC-01) honoring the life and accomplishments of Spoleto Festival USA founder Gian Carlo Menotti. Mr. Menotti sadly passed away a few short months ago.
In 1958, Gian Carlo Menotti founded the Festival of the Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy, as a forum for young artists in Europe. In 1977, Mr. Menotti decided to plan a companion American festival and they searched for an American city that would offer the charm of Spoleto, Italy.
Mr. Menotti and the Spoleto Festival organizers decided that Charleston, South Carolina was the perfect counterpart to Spoleto, Italy. The Spoleto Festival USA quickly became a haven for a large group of artists, both traditional and experimental, who not only enjoy the mix of dance, theater, opera, music, and the visual arts, but also enjoy the Charleston area. The visitors who have made their way to Charleston for the festival has grown as its notoriety has increased throughout the years.
Gian Carlo Menotti died on February 1, 2007, but even after his death the Spoleto Festival USA will maintain the traditions of the Festival of Two Worlds. These include a dedication to young artists and an enthusiasm for providing unusual performance opportunities to recognized masters in their fields, and a commitment to all forms of the performing arts including classical ballet; modern and post-modern dance; opera; chamber, symphonic, and choral music; jazz; theater; and visual arts.
After the unanimous vote by the House, Congressman Brown stated, "I'm pleased that this resolution honoring a great champion of the arts in the United States and in Italy was passed unanimously before we begin the first Spoleto Festival in Charleston since the passing of Gian Carlo Menotti." Brown continued, "The Spoleto Festival in Charleston now attracts over 75,000 attendees each year and showcases all of the great things that Charleston has to offer and for that we are all grateful for the efforts of Gian Carlo Menotti"
National Italian American Foundation has endorsed H.Con.Res.68 and the entire South Carolina delegation is cosponsoring, including the Majority Whip, Jim Clyburn, whom also represents part of Charleston, South Carolina. The legislation now moves over to the Senate for consideration.
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