by Wendy Killeen

You can spend "A Night in Italy" at the Antonio Gentile Bandstand at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester on Sunday, Aug. 16. The free concert, presented by the Cape Ann Community Band under the direction of David Benjamin, features a variety of Italian favorites. The band is joined by two solo vocalists, soprano Kathleen Adams and tenor Michael Pallazola.

The program features marches, opera, and classics, including selections from "Aida;" "O Sole Mio," "Italian Polka," "Little Italian Rhapsody," Italian movie themes, and more. Children are invited to march around the bandstand while the band plays the "Mickey Mouse March." During the concert, BankGloucester officers and friends scoop free ice cream and Italian ice for concertgoers, courtesy of the bank.

The Cape Ann Community Band is composed of musicians ranging in age from 13 to the mid-80s and with varying experience. "We've always had a lot of fun preparing our concerts," said Benjamin. "Everyone is learning and enjoying the company of fellow musicians." "We love this group," said Patrick Thorpe, president and CEO of BankGloucester, which sponsors the annual event. "They represent the whole of our Cape Ann community and they always put on a terrific show." The concert begins at 7 p.m. Audience members are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. In the event of rain, the concert will be rescheduled to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19.

The park is at 24 Hough Ave. Call 978-675-9903 or visit www.bankgloucester.com or www.davidlbenjamin.com.