More than 300 guests turned out at the historic Hippodrome Theatre Saturday for the 41st annual “Charity Ballo,” sponsored by the American Council on Italian Matters of Maryland Inc.

Since this year’s theme was a toast to the Italian film industry, the Hippodrome was the perfect venue — with cut outs and posters of famous Italian movie stars, directors and films adorning the lobby. On display were posters for Martin Scorsese’s “The Departed,” which won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2007, and Roberto Benigni’s “ Life is Beautiful,” which won Oscars for Best Foreign Film and Best Actor (Benigni) in 1998.

This event also was about Italian pride of family, heritage and tradition. Chair Stephanie DeRito welcomed guests to the lobby area for cocktails and a massive silent auction, which included Italian-themed baskets, sports memorabilia provided by Robbie First Base and framed art of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack and from the movies “The Godfather” and “La Dolce Vita.”

Council President Margaret Cuomo ushered everyone into the main theater, where she shared that “this event was orchestrated by an amazing group of ladies” — DeRito, co-chair Joanne Mangione, Susan Gallerizzo, and Irene DeRito, and ad chair Kathy Rescigno. “I am awed by all of you,” she said.

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After the singing of both the American and Italian national anthems, the curtain on the stage went up, and on-stage were displayed 28 beautifully decorated tables, set for dinner. The backdrop featured huge posters of Isabella Rossellini, Sylvester Stallone, Abbott and Costello and Mira Sorvino among others.

Seen enjoying “Un Tributo Al Cinema Italiana e Le Altre Arti” were Victor and Tina Broccolino, Toni Quakenbush, Margaux Pivec, Ciao Bella Restaurant’s Lynette Gambino and Al Pecora. On center stage was former state Sen. Tom Bromwell and his Lady in Red, wife Mary Pat.

The only thing better than the delicious meal and the “Soprano” martinis was tenor Elio Scaccio, who brought tears to the eyes of many with his singing. “I didn’t know what he was saying, but it sounded so beautiful,” said Vasi Karas, who was celebrating her birthday that same evening.

With higher education in mind, this event annually supports the American Council’s scholarship fund.

SPOTTED

Provident Bank Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Gary Geisel was seen recently at the Reginald F. Lewis High School in Baltimore City. Socially Speaking learned he was there to advise seniors on how to get a good start on managing their finances.. Hopefully, Geisel’s next stop will be Annapolis.

ANNE’S PICKS OF THE WEEK

What: Fifth annual Greater Baltimore Leadership Association’s Masquerade Ball

When: Saturday, from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Where: Maryland Science Center, 601 Light St. in Baltimore

Tickets: $95 in advance (no tickets at the door)

Info: Ted Coates at 443-803-8767; online at www.bul.org

What: Gallery 44 reception for artist Amy Lynn

When: Friday, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Saturday, from 10 a.m. to noon

Where: Gallery 44, 9469 Baltimore National Pike in Ellicott City

Admission: Free

Info: Art sale benefits Success In Style, a nonprofit for disadvantaged women

Anne Boone-Simanski is the social columnist for The Examiner and can be reached at absss@baltimoreexaminer.com or 410-878-6131.