After a four-year wait, the Junior College is organising the seventh edition of the Ħolqa International Youth Arts Festival, with a post-apocademic theme. The festival will take place between 21 and 23 März 2023

Ħolqa is a cultural space for students, 16 to 19 years of age, from different socio-economic backgrounds and countries, to come together to share ideas, views and culture through their artistic expression.

The festival aims to provide students with a myriad of opportunities:

• to showcase their artistic and creative talents in visual and performative arts

• to improve their artistic skills

• to raise awareness through theatre about specific themes which are of interest to this age group

• to provide a platform for intercultural collaboration

• to follow the visual and performative arts as part of this holistic educational programme

• to strengthen the international collaboration of the Junior College with other educational institutions.

  This year, Ħolqa will have several branches of art, including: dance, music, literature, drama, performing arts and visual art. Moreover, it will include a series of ongoing cultural, artistic, information and training woskshop events which will enable students in the various artistic spheres to appreciate the concept of the Ħolqa Festival in its entirety.

  The enthusiastic artistic director, Mr Jeremy Grech, said: “It’s back! And what a time to be back at it indeed. As an ex-participant of the festival, I am beyond honoured to be at its helm! This festival was one of the paths that led to my career in the performing arts, and I will therefore never forget that JC stage! The best part of working on this festival is getting to work with a vastly talented bunch of lecturers and students who are not only committed but also showcasing signs of professionalism from such a young age. Ħolqa is more than just an international youth arts festival. It is a safe space where students can get together, discuss, think, speak and create interesting pieces of art which will not only strengthen their present self but also serve as a backbone for their future endeavors!”

  Ms Olivianne Farrugia, the visual art curator of the festival commented: “After years of wait, we are back! A POST-APOCADEMIC emergence of great talent; a true feast to the senses that celebrates creativity, innovation and individuality over a week in a budding setting and with an opportunity to build new friendships. We look forward to have you with us.”

  The Ħolqa festival is open to all students and the general audience interested in creative and performative arts. This year’s schedule may be found at their website.

  Anyone who wishes to attend the festival is to contact Mr Jeremy Grech at jgrec20@um.edu.mt