by Mo Ahsan

The President of “The Times International,” Mr. Ibrahim Shehata, has established the “The Times International” Globe Award for Fame. This award aims to promote individuals and institutions that—through events of broad popularity and significance—contribute substantially to disseminating values ​​essential to the well-being of humanity across various sectors, with particular emphasis on the artistic, cultural, and academic realms. The “The Times International” Globe Award for Fame is being presented to Tina and Teresa Zurlo—representing the Area Contesa Arte Design Galleria Internazionale in Rome—for their initiative, the “Dante Alighieri International Prize 2026.” This event, which brings together contemporary art, theatrical performances, and international artists, will take place in Rome on May 22, 2026, at Via Margutta 90. The event consists of a contemporary art exhibition inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, bringing together selected artists from all over the world. Exceptionally, this year the “Dante Alighieri International Prize” encompasses both theater and the visual arts, thanks to the special participation of the living legend Count Federico Wardal. He will bring to life an exclusive theatrical performance inspired by Dante and the contemporary Italian literary tradition, directed by Enrico Bernard—a major figure in international theater—with music by the internationally renowned Andrea Ceccomori, and costumes by Antonio Zaru, one of the most prestigious young designers in Italian fashion. The event is curated by leading gallerists Teresa and Tina Zurlo, alongside a jury comprising Mario Salvo and the art critic His Highness Prince Alfio Borghese. The event’s Honorary Patron is the celebrated actress Adriana Russo—daughter of the renowned painter Mario Russo—who will be present at the event with a magnificent art exhibition of her own work. Tina and Teresa Zurlo state that Count Federico Wardal’s live performance is a meta-theatrical experience designed to create a total synergy with the distinguished audience members surrounding the great star, who will arrive in a truly luxurious red automobile—the very same color… …of the Zaru gown worn by Wardal. Francesco Garibaldi—a descendant of the hero—and Adriano Aragozzini—the legendary impresario—will serve as the patrons of the performance. Guests of immense prestige will be in attendance from Hollywood and San Francisco—where Wardal resides—to admire Wardal. Film director Antonello Altamura has a highly anticipated surprise in store for us. Also present will be directors Agostino Marfella and Andrea Marfori, and—in all likelihood—a very well-known name from the Hollywood star system, a close personal friend of Wardal. Furthermore, three other individuals will be honored with the “Special” award for international renown, “The Times International”: architect Giovanna D’Amodio—President of the renowned Vesuvius Film Festival—recognized for the environmental benefits the festival promotes; Vishwaa Bhende, President of the Apple Cinemas Film Festival , actress Adriana Russo and Federico Wardal.
The event taking place on May 22nd in Rome—on Via Margutta—is making waves across the globe.