Pop star Madonna spent her 66th birthday in Pompeii, Italy, where she donated to a local theater project supporting at-risk children, according to officials at the Italian archaeological site. Madonna visited the UNESCO World Heritage site on Friday night with close friends and met a group of teenagers involved in "The Dream of Flight," a theater project overseen by the Pompeii Museum, which engages local youth in cultural performances.
The museum stated in a release: "As announced during the meeting, the artist decided to support the project... by fully funding the 2024/2025 school year." Gabrielle Zuchtriegel, the director of the Pompeii site, organized a special tour for Madonna and her entourage after some young actors showcased their work. Fans waited for hours outside the complex to catch a glimpse of the singer.
Organizers noted that the project, which is entering its fourth year, has a budget nearing 250,000 euros and has involved around 300 teenagers and children from the area training in acting, music, and writing. Following its premiere at the Great Theater of Pompeii this year, the project has toured Bologna and Ravenna and is set to be presented in Vicenza in the fall.
