About ITACA
About ITACA, Where Italian Language, Culture, and Creativity Thrive in the UAE
At ITACA, we bring the richness of Italian language and culture to the United Arab Emirates, offering a unique space where learning, creativity, and tradition come together.
Our courses go beyond language instruction, they integrate the power of our culture and the arts, creating a dynamic learning experience that blends knowledge with creativity. ITACA is more than just a place of learning; it is a cultural hub, a visionary space where intellect and artistic expression meet to shape a vibrant Italian community in the Emirates.
The name ITACA symbolizes a journey of discovery, much like Ulysses’ epic voyage, an adventure fuelled by intellectual curiosity and the desire to explore new horizons. With our boat-spacecraft logo, we envision a cultural bridge between Italy and the Emirates, where tradition and innovation merge in the heart of Dubai’s diverse landscape.
We recognize that every student is unique, with individual goals and aspirations. Our Italian language classes are designed to be engaging, interactive, and tailored to foster confidence and enthusiasm in learning.
Through drama and acting courses, we not only teach artistic expression but also cultivate essential life skills such as confidence, focus, and self-awareness. By celebrating Italian theater, music, and literature, we create an immersive environment that embraces both the depth of Italian culture and the cosmopolitan spirit of Dubai.
At ITACA, language, culture, and creativity intertwine, opening doors to endless possibilities. Whether you’re looking to master Italian, explore drama, or experience the richness of Italian heritage, our programs are designed to inspire and transform.
Sign up today and be part of something truly special.
Meet The Founder
Michela Contini
Michela Contini, an acclaimed actress and director hailing from Italy, brings her exceptional skills and artistic vision to the vibrant city of Dubai. With a passion for drama deeply rooted in her veins, Michela embarked on her dramatic journey studying with prestigious theater companies in Italy.
Her quest for knowledge and growth led her to London, where she further honed her craft at the esteemed Guildhall Drama School. In 2015, she achieved the remarkable distinction of attaining a LAMDA qualification with an outstanding score of 96 out of 100.
Michela’s talent extends beyond the stage, as she has extensive experience as a workshop facilitator, conducting acting workshops for both children and adults in Italy and Dubai. Her ability to inspire and guide aspiring actors is a testament to her exceptional teaching skills.
Since her arrival in Dubai in 2012, Michela has graced the stage with mesmerizing performances, captivating audiences in both English and Italian productions. Her directorial prowess was recognized in 2016 when the Italian play she helmed received the prestigious “Best Regional Play” award in Dubai.
Michela’s artistic repertoire extends beyond acting and directing. She is well-versed in modern jazz dance, contemporary dance, and dance theater, infusing her performances with grace and fluidity. As a dedicated student of Iyengar yoga, she understands the importance of mind-body harmony in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
Michela’s educational achievements are equally impressive. She holds a Ph.D. in Literature, an M.D. in Arts, and a master’s degree in Cultural Events Management. These qualifications underscore her deep intellectual curiosity and commitment to the arts.
Join Michela Contini’s world of theatrical magic, where her expertise, creativity, and profound understanding of the dramatic arts will guide you on a transformative journey. Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a lover of the stage, or simply seeking to explore the boundless possibilities of artistic expression, Michela’s presence will ignite your imagination and nurture your talent.
Natascia Colautti
Natascia Colautti is an inspiring educator whose passion for Italian language, literature, and the dramatic arts infuses everything she does. With a degree in Modern Literature and a thesis on the captivating history of theatre, she brings both scholarly insight and creative flair to her teaching.
Her acting journey began in Milan with the esteemed theatre company “Quelli di Grock,” and she further refined her craft in Padua with the renowned TPR – Teatro Popolare di Ricerca. These formative experiences have enriched her performance repertoire, allowing her to shine on stage in both Italian and English productions. Notable performances include stirring renditions of Sophocles’ timeless classic Antigone and Pessoa’s thought-provoking “I 3 marinai”.
Since making Dubai her home in 2013, Natascia has become a vibrant part of the local cultural scene, actively participating in festivals and theatrical productions. In 2021, she made her co-directorial debut with “Quello che le donne non dicono”, a compelling piece inspired by the comedy “Due partite”. More recently, she directed “Carnage: cortesie, buonismi ed altre ipocrisie”, further showcasing her dynamic leadership and artistic vision.
In addition to her theatrical pursuits, Natascia is a dedicated Italian language and literature teacher at some of Dubai’s most prestigious private schools. Her engaging, immersive teaching style not only cultivates language proficiency but also ignites a deep appreciation for Italian culture among her students.
