All the world’s a stage!

Pjazza teatru rjal

A few of the island’s top venues you should be fitting into your schedule this season

Theatre and the performing arts has been a staple on the Maltese islands for centuries. In the 21^st century, opportunities for both performance as well as training are as abundant as ever, with jam-packed programmes at all performance venues in Malta.

Manoel Theatre (Teatru Manoel)

Manoel Theatre

No theatre list is complete without the mention of the Manoel Theatre. Named after the Grand Master Fran Antonio Manoel de Vilhena, who ordered its construction in 1731, ‘Teatru Manoel’ seats 623 and is located on Old Theatre Street.

The Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC)

mcc

The 16^th century building, now known as the MCC, has long been one of the Capital’s most remarkable landmarks. Converted into a modern conference centre in 1979, the MCC, Republic Hall seats 1,400 and is located on Triq L-Isptar.

Pjazza Teatru Rjal

Pjazza Teatru Rjal

The construction of the ‘Royal Opera House’ as it was originally known, was formally approved in 1860. In 1873, the theatre accidentally caught on fire and was extensively damaged. Furthermore, in 1942, the theatre was subject to an aerial attack by Stuka dive-bombers. Today, Pjazza Teatru Rjal has been integrated into the old theatre’s and it is regarded as a monument that stands for the heroism and dignity of the Maltese.

St James Cavalier (Spazju Kreattiv)

ST JAMES CAVALIER

Plans for the building were originally laid down in 1566, following The Great Siege, with its primary function being to serve as a raised gun-platform. By the 19^th century, the British Forces were using St James Cavalier to store and circulate water within Valletta. Its interior and identity was completely revised and reformed and is now known as Malta’s national Centre for Creativity – ‘Spazju Kreattiv’.