Nicoletta Orsomando, born Nicolina Orsomando on January 11, 1929, in Casapulla, a small town in the province of Caserta, Italy, is a name synonymous with Italian television history. Her gentle demeanor, impeccable diction, and iconic presence made her a beloved figure across generations. Known as the “Signorina Buonasera,” Orsomando was Italy’s most recognized television announcer, and her career spanned over four decades, making her a fixture in the homes of millions of Italians.
Early Life and Background
Nicoletta Orsomando’s early years were marked by a series of moves due to her father’s career. Giovanni Orsomando, her father, was a musician who directed various city bands and eventually became the director of the band of the militia, invited directly by Benito Mussolini. This position necessitated several relocations, from Mazzarino to Lavello, and finally to Rome in 1937. Settling in the Trastevere district of Rome, young Nicoletta grew up in a city brimming with history and culture, a setting that would influence her future career in broadcasting.
Her family faced a challenging period during World War II, particularly after her father refused to align with the Republic of Salò, leading to economic hardship. Despite these difficulties, Nicoletta’s upbringing was not marred by deprivation, and she pursued her education with determination. She attended a teacher training institute and later enrolled in a university course to become a social worker. Her early career involved working with the INA-Casa program, where she was responsible for assigning housing to the underprivileged.
The Path to Television: A Surprising Turn
Nicoletta Orsomando’s journey to television was not straightforward. Encouraged by those who admired her beautiful voice, she initially tried her hand at radio, albeit with limited success. After a brief stint in theater, where she realized her passion lay elsewhere, Orsomando found herself at a crossroads. It was then that she learned of the arrival of television in Rome and the opportunity to audition for this new medium.
In 1953, Nicoletta made her television debut, marking the beginning of a storied career. Her first appearance was on October 22, 1953, when she presented a documentary on the Encyclopedia Britannica produced by the National Geographic. At that time, television was still an experimental medium in Italy, with only a handful of households owning a television set. Despite this, Orsomando’s presence on the small screen began to make an impact.
Her early work included hosting “Tv dei ragazzi,” a children’s program, and a few episodes of “Cineselezione,” as well as a brief stint on “L’amico degli animali,” a show dedicated to animals hosted by Angelo Lombardi. These early roles allowed her to hone her skills as a presenter, gradually building the foundation for what would become an illustrious career.
The Rise to Fame: Becoming the “Signorina Buonasera”
Nicoletta Orsomando’s real breakthrough came when she became one of RAI’s (Radiotelevisione Italiana) official announcers, a role that would define her career and public image. The announcers, affectionately referred to as “Signorine Buonasera,” were the faces of RAI, responsible for introducing programs, making announcements, and maintaining a reassuring presence on the screen. Orsomando’s poised and elegant demeanor made her a natural fit for this role.
Her work as an announcer began in the early days of Italian television, a time when the medium was still finding its footing. The role of the announcer was crucial, as they were the trusted intermediaries between the television station and the audience. Orsomando excelled in this position, her voice and presence becoming a comforting and familiar part of daily life for millions of Italians.
Throughout her career, Orsomando was known for her flawless diction, a quality that set her apart from her peers. Her ability to speak clearly and elegantly was a reflection of her dedication to her craft and her deep respect for the Italian language. Over time, she became the embodiment of professionalism in broadcasting, admired by colleagues and viewers alike.
Key Moments in Her Career
Nicoletta Orsomando’s career was marked by several key moments that highlighted her versatility and commitment to her work. In 1957, she took part in the Sanremo Music Festival, one of Italy’s most prestigious music events, alongside other prominent figures like Marisa Allasio, Fiorella Mari, and Nunzio Filogamo. Her involvement in such a significant event underscored her growing prominence in Italian television.
Another milestone came in 1968 when she co-hosted the inauguration of “Oggi al Parlamento” with Jader Jacobelli, a parliamentary news program that provided viewers with insights into the workings of Italy’s legislative body. This role demonstrated her ability to handle more serious and politically charged content, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and reliable presenter.
Despite the changing landscape of television and the arrival of new formats and technologies, Orsomando remained a constant presence on RAI. Her career as an announcer continued for an impressive forty years, during which she witnessed and contributed to the evolution of Italian television. Her final broadcast as an announcer took place on November 20, 1993, marking the end of an era.
Post-Retirement Appearances and Legacy
Even after her official retirement, Nicoletta Orsomando remained a beloved figure in Italian media. In 1999, she made a return to television in the entertainment program “Su e giù,” hosted by Gaia De Laurentiis on Raidue. Her appearance was a nostalgic moment for many viewers who had grown up watching her on their screens.
In 2008, Orsomando made another memorable appearance on “Viva Radio2 Minuti,” a show hosted by Fiorello that aired on Raiuno after the evening news. Fiorello, known for his impersonations, often mimicked Orsomando in the promotional spots for the show, a testament to her enduring influence and iconic status. Other celebrities, including Biagio Antonacci, Simona Ventura, Laura Pausini, and Jovanotti, also paid homage to her through similar imitations, further cementing her place in Italian popular culture.
That same year, she participated in “Tutti pazzi per la tele,” a Raiuno program presented by Antonella Clerici, where she engaged in a generational comparison with Arianna Marchetti, a younger announcer from Raidue. This appearance highlighted the contrast between the new generation of television presenters and the traditions represented by Orsomando.
In the early months of 2011, Nicoletta Orsomando appeared alongside Lorella Cuccarini on “Domenica In,” a long-running Sunday variety show on Raiuno. Later that year, she participated in “Hotel Patria,” a program hosted by Mario Calabresi on Raitre, where she read letters written by ordinary people and celebrities alike. Her presence on these programs was a reminder of her enduring appeal and the deep respect she commanded in the industry.
During the 2011-2012 television season, Orsomando served as a judge on “La prova del cuoco,” a popular cooking show hosted by Antonella Clerici. She was joined by two other former RAI announcers, Mariolina Cannuli and Rosanna Vaudetti, making for a nostalgic and heartwarming reunion of RAI’s most beloved faces.
Her final television appearance came in 2013 on the late-night show “Raiboh,” hosted by Francesco Facchinetti on Rai 2. Even in her later years, Orsomando continued to be an influential figure, participating in programs that celebrated her legacy and contribution to Italian television.
Passing and Legacy
Nicoletta Orsomando passed away in Rome on August 21, 2021, at the age of 92, after a brief illness. Her death marked the end of an era for Italian television, and she was mourned by many who remembered her as a constant presence in their lives.
Orsomando’s legacy is one of professionalism, grace, and dedication. She was not just a television announcer but a symbol of an era when television was still a relatively new and powerful medium. Her influence extended beyond the screen, as she set a standard for others to follow in terms of how a television presenter should conduct themselves.
Her career is a testament to the impact that a single individual can have on an entire industry. For decades, Nicoletta Orsomando was the face and voice of RAI, guiding viewers through their daily television experience with warmth and reliability. Her contributions to Italian television are immeasurable, and she remains a cherished figure in the history of the medium.
Conclusion
Nicoletta Orsomando’s life and career are emblematic of the golden age of Italian television. As the “Signorina Buonasera,” she brought a touch of elegance and professionalism to the small screen, becoming a trusted figure in the homes of millions. Her long career, marked by significant milestones and a deep connection with her audience, made her one of the most beloved television personalities in Italy.
Her passing in 2021 was a significant loss, but her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched over the years. Nicoletta Orsomando will always be remembered as a pioneer of Italian television, a woman who embodied the very best of what it means to be a presenter. Her story serves as an inspiration to those who seek to follow in her footsteps, reminding us of the power of dedication, grace, and a genuine connection with the audience.
