英语文摘:Italy to celebrate for first time World Theater Day

ROME, March 16 (Xinhua) - - Italy will celebrate for the first time on March 27 the World Theater Day with a series of initiatives aimed at spreading awareness on this important artistic form, officials said at a press conference on Tuesday at the government's headquarters.

Undersecretary of State Gianni Letta, president of the organizing committee, said the festivity offers an "opportunity to celebrate and make people get familiar to the theater by conveying its values and significance."

On March 27 theaters across the country will be open with non- stop performances. School students will be granted free tickets and other special offers are planned to attract the highest number of people.

"Italians must learn to feel the theater as a need, as part of their lives," said Letta, who described it as an instrument of education, social well-being and democratic progress.

Letta noted that the Italian theater's tradition is rich and cannot die. The Under Secretary of State recalled the support given to the sector by the centre-right government of Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, which has allocated this year a 70 million euro budget for its promotion.

Under Secretary of State Paolo Bonaiuti outlined the impressive information campaign launched to boost awareness on the celebration, including the participation of both private and public entities.