To mark the start of Italian Language Week in the World, the Italian Cultural Institute in Nairobi is offering a series of events in the capital starting tomorrow to promote our language, culture, excellence and Made in Italy.

It all kicks off on Saturday 11 October with a screening of the animated film Yaya & Lennie – The Walking Liberty in the picturesque setting of Karura Forest.

This is an intense and visionary feature film by Neapolitan director Alessandro Rak, who previously directed L’Arte della felicità (The Art of Happiness) and the animated adaptation of “Gatta Cenerentola” (Cinderella the Cat), based on the famous fairy tale by Gianbattista Basile.

Here is a brief introduction to “Yaya and Lennie”.

After a cataclysm, the world as we know it has collapsed and nature has reclaimed the earth. A new society, called “The Institution”, attempts to restore order, but many oppose it. Yaya and Lennie tells the story of two free spirits — Yaya, a determined young woman, and Lennie, a giant with a pure heart — united by a deep bond as they seek freedom and harmony in a world in ruins. With a powerful visual style, a vibrant Neapolitan soundtrack and poetic narration, The Walking Liberty is a moving reflection on nature, rebellion and hope.

The film will be screened in Italian with English subtitles.

Admission is free upon registration — registration closes on Friday, 10 October!

To participate, send an email to iicnairobi@esteri.it

• your full name and the names of any accompanying persons
• the title of the event (Yaya & Lennie — The Walking Liberty)

Access to Karura Forest is subject to standard fees; annual pass holders must present their pass at the gate.

Light refreshments will be served.

Another screening will take place at Unseen in Kilimani on Wednesday 15 October at 7.30pm.

This is “Carla”, a film by director Emanuele Imbucci, inspired by the autobiography of the famous Italian ballerina “Passo dopo passo-La mia storia” (Step by Step - My Story). This film traces the key stages in the life of Carla Fracci. From her childhood spent on the stages of the world's most prestigious theatres, “Carla” recounts the human and professional challenges of the extraordinary étoile.

Italian Language Week in Kenya will conclude with a concert-show of opera music, which will retrace the history of opera. Date, time and location to be announced soon.