Jerry Calà: his new projects and his connection with Dubai

Italian actor talks about himself amid anecdotes and dreams in the drawer

After a career filled with success in cinema, theater, and music, Jerry Calà tells us what it still means today to feel moved on stage and in front of the camera. In this interview—between anecdotes from his summer tour, unfulfilled dreams, and reflections on contemporary comedy—we discover his deep connection with art and the audience, with a glimpse at his future projects, starting in Dubai.

Jerry Calà during one of his shows at La Capannina, a cult summer event in Forte dei Marmi

After so many years of working in cinema, theater, and music, what still truly excites you today when you step on stage or in front of a camera?
If an artist truly loves this job, there’s never routine. Every time it’s a new thrill. Every stage is different: the other night, for example, in Dubai I felt a unique emotion. There’s always the anticipation of seeing how the audience will react. And the same happens when you start shooting a film: you find yourself in front of the camera in the role of a new character. Curiosity and excitement are everything. When those are gone, it’s better to stop.

Do you still feel stage fright, even after so many years?
Yes, always. It has to be there, because that very anxiety gives you the energy to give your best on stage.

Will we see you soon in something new, perhaps behind the camera or in the theater?
I have several projects in the works: a role in a TV series, a film, and a leading role in a movie I’m supposed to start this fall. But I’m a bit superstitious: until it actually happens, I prefer not to share too many details.

Can you tell us more about this summer’s tour?
It’s a musical show with my band, where I tell stories and sing the songs that have marked my life and my films: from the soundtracks of Sapore di Mare and Vacanze di Natale, to Battisti and all those songs from those years that even the youngest audiences know by heart.

Scene from the film 'Time for Loving', with Jerry Calà together with Christian De Sica, Isabella Ferrari

Is there still something you dream of doing in your career, a project left in the drawer?
There are two roles I would love to play in cinema: a teacher and a priest. A teacher because that’s what I wanted to be when I was young: I studied Classical Literature, I loved Latin and Greek, and I dreamed of teaching. A priest, instead, because it’s always such an interesting role for an actor to explore.

If you were to bring one of your iconic characters to Dubai, who would you choose and why?
Definitely Billo from Vacanze di Natale. In Dubai I sensed such a strong desire to have fun and enjoy music, and Billo would have been perfect for that atmosphere.

Do you have any upcoming projects in Dubai?
Definitely. I really want to come back—I feel great here. Together with Radio Italia Dubai we’re planning to organize more shows starting from October, and I’m also considering a film project: Dubai would make a fantastic set.