Claudio Baglioni will begin his final tour with a free concert in Lampedusa, an event drawing both excitement and criticism over its public cost. The concert, part of the three-day event “The Island, the Youth and the Future,” will take place on September 27 and is expected to cost over €700,000, including tax.
Funding will come from a government program managed by the Italian Youth Agency, not from Lampedusa’s municipal budget. The event is organized by Friends and Partners Spa, awarded the contract through a municipal resolution.
The mayor of Lampedusa, Filippo Mannino, said the concert will boost tourism and serve as a cultural milestone for the island. He confirmed that Baglioni and over 20 accompanying musicians will perform without receiving any payment.
Government funds and artist’s role clarified
The singer, known for his long-standing connection to Lampedusa, will participate only during the youth-focused event. His performance marks the launch of his farewell tour, which will continue across 40 Italian cities in 2026. The show will feature re-recorded tracks from his iconic album “La vita è adesso,” released 40 years ago.
More than 100 people participating in the youth project will be hosted on the island during the event. Activities include debates, workshops, sports, cultural discussions, and evening performances.
The mayor emphasized that the funding is part of a national initiative and would have gone to another municipality if Lampedusa had not applied.
Local groups raise concerns over priorities
Despite local support, some residents and associations have voiced concern. The Obiettivo Pelagie group questioned whether the funds could have been used for more urgent community needs, such as road repairs, student aid, and healthcare facility upgrades. They also pointed to the island’s ongoing challenges with migrant reception and integration.
Critics argue that while the concert may raise the island’s profile, spending such a large sum on a single event sends the wrong message in a community with pressing financial demands. However, supporters believe the presence of Claudio Baglioni and the concert’s visibility offer long-term cultural and economic benefits.
Free show seen as cultural gift to the island
Mannino stressed that the production value alone would normally cost far more and that Baglioni’s appearance is an act of generosity. According to the mayor, including the artist’s usual performance fee would have raised the cost by at least €600,000.
The Lampedusa concert will be the only free performance in the upcoming tour. The event not only celebrates Baglioni’s legacy but also aims to leave a meaningful impact on the island’s youth and broader community.
