Mattarella, Benigni to attend Sanremo opening night

(ANSA) - ROME, FEB 7 - President Sergio Mattarella and Oscar winning director and comic actor Roberto Benigni will attend the opening night of the Sanremo Song Festival Tuesday, host and organizer Amadeus said ahead of the start of the annual musical extravaganza Tuesday.
    He said Mattarella and Benigni will be among the dignitaries and stars at the Ariston Theatre in the Ligurian Riviera 'city of flowers'.
    Amadeus said having the president and Benigni on the opening night would be the best way to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Italy's postwar founding Constitution.
    "Having with us Italian President Sergio Mattarella is an opportunity to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Italian Constitution and there was no better way to do so than by inviting Roberto Benigni," said the Rai state broadcaster presenter.
    Benigni has made several headline-grabbing appearances at the festival, Italian TV's biggest annual event. (ANSA).