Three of Puccini’s best-loved operas will soon take the stage in a single evening at Teatru Salesjan, as Opera Nova Project marks the close of its second year and launches NOVA, an initiative that introduces opera to a new generation of audiences in Malta. 

Performing on 29 May, Puccini Triptych features the emerging talent of Opera Nova Project. Extended highlights from three of Puccini’s most beloved masterpieces,  Suor Angelica, La Rondine and La Bohème, will be presented, fully staged. 

Each opera is helmed by a different director. Suor Angelica, Puccini’s one-act work on redemption and faith, is directed by Karl Cassar. Denise Mulholland directs La Rondine, one of his lesser-known works, with themes of exploitation, reputation and survival at its core. Puccini’s much-loved tale of love, youth and resilience, La Bohème, is directed by Chris Gatt. Gillian Zammit provides musical direction across all three productions, while three pianists will also support the cast throughout the evening. 

The performance also closes Opera Nova Project’s second academic year and showcases the singers who have come through the programme. Over the past two years, Opera Nova Project students have studied with international and local tutors and performed across oratorio, lieder and operatic repertoire from Verdi to Puccini. 

“This second year has seen both our singers and the project go from strength to strength,” says Gillian Zammit, Artistic Director of Opera Nova Project. “Puccini Triptych is a chance for audiences to see what these young artists are capable of, and for our directors to bring three very different sides of Puccini to one stage in one evening.” 

This month also marks the launch of NOVA, Opera Nova Project’s new initiative in collaboration with the Archbishop’s Delegate for Culture and Teatru Salesjan. It aims to break down the barriers of traditional opera for audiences who have never attended a live opera, or who have always wanted to know more about the form. NOVA’s programme will include open masterclasses, lecture recitals and meet-the-artists events, all set in a relaxed, social environment. 

“With NOVA, we want to make opera feel approachable,” Zammit adds. “It’s about giving people a way in, whether that’s their first night at the opera or simply time spent with the artists and the music.” 

Get your tickets here!