by Tom Padula
Un Cuore Italiano is the new John St Peeters OAM event that Italians and Italophiles in Australia are eagerly awaiting: a prestigious, one-off event on Sunday, 29 March 2026, at 4.00 pm. The venue is Pullman on the Park, Albert Park Lakes, Melbourne, as part of the Grand Prix month of activities that creates interest worldwide.
John St Peeters (I still prefer to call him Johnny Lo Piccolo) is the creative director who has prepared this show over a four-year period. The show features 115 musicians and singers who will showcase Italian song and music from Italy, the Italian diaspora worldwide, and Italian artists born outside Italy.
This rich content is inspired, with deep gratitude, by John, who has been proud of his Italian heritage since his childhood days. The memories of his father rest deep in his son’s soul and heart.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime, history-making event for all Italians who helped shape Australia, and it is dedicated to the enduring memory of his beloved father, who passed away in 2024. “This is more than a show — it’s a celebration of heart, heritage, and history,” said St Peeters.
Looking at the press release by John St Peeters has given me insight into just how important this event, “Un Cuore Italiano,” is — especially for all who have background, heritage, and culture as part of their identity as Australians of second, third, fourth, and subsequent generations. There is no doubt that pride in the green, white, and red flag is well placed in the hearts of many when Italy competes at world sporting events, especially at Grand Prix time here in Melbourne. Families, friends, and communities alike will gather to experience this remarkable celebration together, creating memories to cherish forever. The title of this show is very appropriate, and we all wish John St Peeters every success in this major opportunity to showcase the Italian heart. Someone once said that in all people worldwide there is a trace of Italy’s culture in their heart.
