Intense concentration is required to be a Flag Thrower. Woe be him that allows his flag to hit the ground. The Lord would cry, "Off with his head" and (...)

Each flag in this troupe had a unique design. I'm not sure what those designs represented. Since Italy is celebrating 150 years since unification I'm (...)

The flags safely back in sure hands the trumpeters sounded the intermission. The throwers had to be tired.

Each drum also had a different design on it. The drummers banged out a marching rhythm. The Lords, Ladies, Flag Throwers and the peasantry began a slo (...)

The procession passed close to the audience. I had a front row view alongside the assembled dignitaries. I just drifted that way, you know. The troupe (...)

A classic Roman profile framed in such golden finery. I'm sure she was itching to get out of that outfit. I would have helped her too. It's just the w (...)

This one caught me leering at the other girls. I looked frankly at her and shrugged in a Gallic manner. She graced me with this knowing smile.

A couple of authentic Italian carabineri stood guard on either side of the podium. No other security was visible but I thought I recognized some of th (...)

The Mayor of Carpineto Romano, Italy. He spoke only Italian but he addressed the crowd vigorously and they appreciated his comments.

The troupe assembled in formation on one side of the field. The crackling of microphones disturbed the air. A nasty sound system blasted out both nati (...)

Then it was time for the second part of the show. Everyone took their positions.

The flags went airborne to the delight of the crowd.

The Flag Throwers began their manoeuvres. They had their game faces back on. The cameras started rolling again.

This position shows the military origins of the flag men. Back in the day soldiers held their swords in this position, ready to strike down on an enem (...)

Faster and faster the men twirl as the flags flutter and snap at the air. Then with a mighty grunt, the flags are released.

We are approaching the end of the show. The flags are about to be whirled about low to the ground. The idea is to transfer momentum to the flag.

The flags are hurled skyward to encompass the Canadian flag in salute to a country which has become home to so many from Italy.

Flags raised high in salute.

The end must be approaching. This fellow began waving the Italian flag about. Maybe he was tired of just standing there and needed to do something.

His honour, the Ambassador of Italy, gave a rambling speech in both Italian and English. He had a lot to do with bringing this troupe over here to ent (...)