If all the world’s a stage, South Philadelphia’s Italian community has provided it with an estimable list of players. Vocalists like Buddy Greco and Al Martino. Rock ‘n roll pioneers Charlie Gracie and Danny Cedrone, lead guitarist for Bill Haley and The Comets.

Teen heart-throbs Bobby Rydell, Fabian, Frankie Avalon and James Darren from the Bandstand era. Country, blues, rock singer-songwriter Jim Croce who moved along the highway too soon. And, of course, operatic tenor Mario Lanza who portrayed his idol in “The Great Caruso.”