Lyndon Terracini AM awarded one of Italy’s top cultural honours

OA Lyndon Terracini AM wearing the Commander of the Order of the Star of ItalyOpera Australia has announced, Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini AM has been awarded one of the highest civilian honours in Italy – Commander of the Order of the Star of Italy. (Commendatore dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia)

The Honour is bestowed on foreign nationals and expatriates for their work in the promotion of Italian national prestige abroad, upholding and preserving cultural heritage, enhancing friendly relations and co-operation with other countries and ties with Italy.

Presented by Italy’s Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Stefano Gatti and Consul General Mr Arturo Arcano, the award recognises Mr Terracini’s devotion and passion for Italian art, music and culture, and his tireless promotion of Italy’s artistic heritage in Australia and around the world, through his work with local governments, agencies and communities.

Accepting his award, appropriately presented on the steps of the Sydney Opera House, Mr Terracini was understandably proud of the recognition. “I feel very humbled to be honoured by the presentation of this highly prestigious award,” he said.

“My heritage and my profession demand that I communicate my passion for both Italian and Australian art and culture as much as I possibly can, but nevertheless, I feel extremely proud that the work I have done over many years has been recognised in this way.”

Mr Terracini joins an esteemed list of recipients from around the world including luminaries such as the legendary singer Frank Sinatra and tennis champion Novak Djokovic have received the award. The awards cover amazingly diverse sectors such as business, academia, arts and government that include singers, poets, politicians, scientists, business leaders, sportspeople, dancers, diplomats and academics.

Mr Terracini has been Artistic Director with Opera Australia (OA) since 2009, and has been integral in its continuing success and worldwide acclaim. Prior to joining OA, Lyndon was a successful singer, writer and director.

He was appointed Artistic Director and CEO of the Queensland Music Festival in July 2000 and directed the 2001, 2003 and 2005 Festivals. He was appointed Artistic Director/CEO of Brisbane Festival in 2005, and Artistic Director/CEO of Major Brisbane Festivals in November 2007.

In 2014, Terracini’s service to the performing arts as an opera performer, director and administrator was recognised with a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

For more information about Opera Australia, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.

Image: Lyndon Terracini AM – courtesy of Opera Australia