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Cultural Calendar April-June- Malta Council for Culture and the Arts

April – June 2012

April

February – December 2012
Tours of Fort St Elmo
Heritage Malta is organising tours of Fort St Elmo on Sundays (weather permitting) after the In Guardia and Alarme! shows. In coordination with the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA). In Guardia begins at 11.00hrs, followed by the Tour at 12.00hrs. Ticket prices for the show and tour are Adults €10 and Children (under 12) €5 Euro. For more information about the tour call Heritage Malta on 2395 4242.

5 Feb – 15 April
Ġieħ l-Imġarr
An exhibition on the archaeological and cultural significance of the prehistoric temple sites of Ta` Ħaġrat and Skorba and other sites. The exhibition highlights the involvement of the local community and the role it has had, and still has, in managing these sites.
Venue: Mġarr Local Council.
Opening hours: During office hours.

8 November – 29 April
Metal Magic - Spanish Treasures From the Khalili Collections
Venue: The Salon of the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta.
Admission to the exhibition will be included in the admission price to the Museum: Members Free; Adults €5; Students (12 years upwards) and seniors €3.50; Children (6 to 11 years) €2.50.

28 March – 7April
Agħmlu dan b’tifkira tiegħi – life size statues exhibition representing the Last Supper together with different other statues and other objects related with the Holy Week. Event organised by Kummissjoni Żgħażagħ Bastjaniżi.
Venue: Soċjeta’ Filarmonika Pinto Banda San Sebastjan, Qormi.

29 March – 7 April
Il-Kundanna – an exhibition of a Roman prison in the time of Jesus, organised by Kummissjoni Żgħazagħ Bastjaniżi.
Venue: World War II Shelter, Qormi Police Station, Qormi.

29 March – 6 April
Seven-section Holy Week Exhibition - The seven sections of the Holy Week A series of walk-through emotive and devotional exhibitions artistically presented with 30 life-size statues, audio-visual effects and informative commentaries (in English and Maltese) that turn the visit into an educational/cultural/religious experience. This year a new section is being added showing a short film of the 1928 Good Friday Procession in Żebbuġ. The exhibition comprises: The Last Supper (set in an renovated underground vault); The Crucifixion; The Burial of Christ (set in an underground war shelter hewn out of solid live rock). The above three sections are depicted with lifesize statues by artist Alfred Camilleri Cauchi. A set of small ‘Vari’;
a set of 10 original Via Crucis scenes (alto-reliefs by Antonio Mifsud); The Resurrection of Christ (audio-visual); The 1928 Good Friday procession in Zebbug (film).
Venue: St Philip Band Club, 12 St. Philip Square, Zebbug, Malta.
Opening hours: 10.00 and 12.00 hrs and again from 18.00 till 22.00 (till 23:00 on Maundy Thursday). On Good Friday it will open from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 22:00. Special arrangements can be made for groups by calling the undersigned on 99838806.

29 March – 30 April
Selection of Art Works by Gozo College Primary School
Journeys of Discovery (2nd edition): a selection of artworks in various media by Gozo College Primary Students inspired by the collection at the Folklore Museum. Venue: The Citadel Gozo Area Exhibition Hall, The Citadel.
Opening hrs: Mon-Fri 08:00-17:00hrs, Sat 09:00-12:00hrs. Admission Free.

30 March – 6 April
Holy Week Exhibition – an exhibition of passion statuettes, work of Chev. Alfred Camilleri Cauchi, organised by the Religious Commission of the King’s Own Philharmonic Society together with Pio Borg.
Venue: King’s Own Philharmonic Society, Republic Street, Valletta.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 17.00 – 20.00 hrs. On Saturday, Sunday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday 9.30 – 12.00 noon.

Until April 30th
Art Exhibition - Exquisite Limited Edition Prints by Anna Runefelt
Exploring human form and distinctive environments with verve and curiosity, Swedish photographer Anna Runefelt has just relocated to Malta after six years living in London. After an assignment introduced her to these shores, Anna decided to upend her busy life in the UK in favour of the small island’s inspiring aesthetic qualities.
Venue: Palazzo de Piro Cultural Centre, Xpresso Café, Mdina.

31 March – 1 April
‘Il-Passjoni f’Hagar Qim’
A play on the Passion of Christ against the unique backdrop of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples. The path between Hagar Qim and Mnajdra will be transformed into the streets of Jerusalem and the audience will become part of the crowd witnessing the Passion 2000 years ago. Directed by Alan Fenech.
Time: 17.00 hrs.

1 April
Palm Sunday – feast celebrated in various parishes.

1, 15, 22, 29 April
In Guardia Parade – a historical re-enactment organised by the Malta Tourism Authority. The In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment that portrays an authentic event that took place regularly inside Fort St. Elmo. The re-enactment portrays the inspection of the fort and its garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St. John in charge of military affairs. During the re-enactment, the soldiers and knights of the fort’s garrison - some 70 re-enactors - are kitted-out in their finest uniforms and perform a military drill demonstrating to the Grand Bailiff the garrison’s state of readiness in the event of a military threat. The show begins at 11.00 hrs and lasts for 40 minutes.
Venue: Fort St Elmo Time: 11.00 hrs

2 – 4 April
Il-Fidwa – a production related to the passion of our lord Jesus Christ. Event organised by Xewkija Local Council.
Venue: Ġnien ta’ Blankas (Ġnien taż-Żebbuġ), Xewkija.

5 April
Spectacular Illumination on the night of Maundy Thursday with hundreds of candles, organised by Kummissjoni Żgħażagħ Bastjaniżi.
Venue: St Sebastian Church Parvis, Qormi.
Time: 20.00 hrs.

5 April
Concert of Funeral Marches by The King’s Own Philharmonic Society.
Venue: Merchants Street, Valletta. (in front of Ministry for Health)
Time: 9.30 hrs.

5, 15 April, 5 May
She Stoops to Conquer

National Theatre Live Encore screening
One of the great, generous-hearted and ingenious comedies of the English language, Goldsmith’s She Stoops to Conquer offers a celebration of chaos, courtship and the dysfunctional family.
Hardcastle, a man of substance, looks forward to acquainting his daughter with his old pal’s son with a view to marriage. But thanks to playboy Lumpkin, he’s mistaken by his prospective son-in-law Marlow for an innkeeper, his daughter for the local barmaid. The good news is, while Marlow can barely speak to a woman of quality he’s a charmer with those of a different stamp. And so, as Hardcastle’s indignation intensifies, Miss Hardcastle’s appreciation for her misguided suitor soars. Misdemeanours multiply, love blossoms, mayhem ensues.
Venue: St James Cavalier Cinema, Valletta
Time: 20.00 hrs

6 April
Good Friday – feast celebrated in various parishes.

6 April
Good Friday Procession
Venue: Around various streets. Procession starts and ends at the St George’s Parish, Qormi.
Time: 17.30 hrs.

7 April, 21 April
MANON
An opera by Jules Massenet in a co-production of the Metropolitan Opera, New York; the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London; Teatro alla Scala, Milan; and Théâtre du Capitole de Toulouse. Anna Netrebko’s dazzling portrayal of the tragic heroine in Laurent Pelly’s new production travels to the Met from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Piotr Beczala and Paulo Szot also star, with the Met’s Principal Guest Conductor Fabio Luisi on the podium.
Language: French (with English sub-titles)
Live transmission: April 7 at 18.00 hrs
Encore Screening: April 21 at 18.00 hrs
Venue: St James Cavalier Cinema, Valletta.

14, 28 April
LA TRAVIATA
An opera by Giuseppe Verdi in a production by the Salzburger Festspiele; with thanks to De Nederlandse Opera. Natalie Dessay will put on the red dress in Willy Decker’s stunning production, in her first Violetta at the Met. Matthew Polenzani sings Alfredo, Dmitri Hvorostovsky is Germont, and Principal Conductor Fabio Luisi is on the podium.

Live Transmission: 14 April at 19.00 hrs
Encore Screening: 28 April at 19.00 hrs

19 April – 24 May
Spanish Film Festival

19 April
Soldiers of Salamis (Soldados de Salamina, 2003)
Directed by David Trueba, based on the book by Javier Cercas. Starring Ariadna Gil and Ramon Fontsere, the film was nominated for eight Goya Awards in 2004, and won the award for Best Cinematography. It was also screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival.

24 May
Smoking Room (2002)
Written and directed by Roger Gual and Julio D.Wallovits, and starring Miguel Ángel González, Francesco Orella and Francesco Garrido
When the Spanish branch of a U.S.-based company bans smoking during business hours, a salary worker named Ramirez (Eduard Fernández) launches a passionate petition campaign to fight the ruling and inadvertently sparks an all-out war among the employees.

7 April – 20 May
Victor Agius’ Open Studio - Victor Agius will be showing his new works and artworks from his current project which was recently launched at the Sant’ Eufemia Gallery in Venice.
Venue: The Art Studio is in Bishop R. Farrugia Street in Xaghra Gozo close to the Ġgantija Temples.
Opening hours: Saturdays 18.00 hrs - 20.00 hrs and on Sundays 10.30 hrs - 12.30 hrs or by appointment on 79594508 or via www.victoragius.com

8 April
Easter Sunday – feast celebrated in various parishes.

8 April
The Risen Christ – feast celebrated in Pembroke.

8 April
Risen Lord Procession
Venue: Around various streets. Procession starts and ends at the St George’s Parish, Qormi.
Time: 9.00 hrs.

10 – 14 April
The International Spring Festival

An annual event in the culture calendar produced by Maltese composer Karl Fiorini with the participation of the Rotterdam Ensemble under the baton of Roberto Beltran.
Venue: Teatru Manoel, Valletta.
Tuesday 10 April Opening concert, Teatru Manoel, Valletta 20.00 hrs
Wednesday 11 April Rising Stars concert I, Sala Isouard, Teatru Manoel, 12:30pm
Wednesday 11 April Chamber concert
Times: 12.30 hrs and 20.00 hrs

13 April
German Film Evening: "Fassbinder's Classics" - Series dedicated to some of the best films directed by Hans Werner Fassbinder
"Lola" colour, 113 min., 1981 - An honourable gentleman’s passion for a dishonourable woman provides the starting point for a wicked, provincial tale set during Germany’s “economic miracle”. An idealistic building commissioner falls in love with a young woman and only realizes later that a building contractor regularly employs her as his mistress.
Venue: Messina Palace, Valletta
Time: 18.30 hrs.

13 April
Malta Philharmonic Orchestra Baroque Concert Series
Malta Philharmonic Orchestra’s second concert in the series, features violinist Nemanja Ljubinkovic performing J.S. Bach’s violin concerto in E major, and works of Baroque Maltese composers, under the direction of Joseph Vella.
Venue: Robert Samut Hall, Floriana.
Time: 19.30 hrs.
13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 April

Becky Shaw

A wickedly funny comedy which enjoyed critical acclaim and massive success in its Off-Broadway run in 2009 and most recently at the Almeida Theatre in London, presented by Masquerade. Written by award-winning writer Gina Gionfriddo, Becky Shaw is about a blind date gone bad. The play centres on what happens when newlyweds Suzanna and Andrew set up Suzanna's lifelong best friend, the sharp-tongued money manager Max, with Andrew's romantically-challenged, seemingly fragile co-worker, Becky. From the moment that Becky arrives overdressed for her blind date with straight-talking Max Garrett, it is clear the evening is unlikely go to plan. In the immediate fallout, Becky becomes an object of devotion for her boss Andrew, who appears to have a fetish for vulnerable women. In turn Andrew’s wife Suzanna turns to her step-brother Max for comfort, and their mutual desire begins to resurface. Becky Shaw is a razor-sharp comedy of romantic errors that keeps audiences at the edge of their seats guessing what will happen next. This play is directed by anthony bezzina, Masquerade’s artistic director. The cast consists of Isabel Warrington, Malcolm Galea, Laura Best, Toni Attard and Sue Scantlebury. Venue: St James Cavalier, Valletta.

Time: 19.30 hrs Tickets can be booked on line at www.sjcav.org, by phone on 21223200, or by visiting the box office at St. James Cavalier in Valletta. Full details through Masquerade’s website www.masquerademalta.com, or by calling 79793737. Discounted tickets at €10.00 are available for Friday 13th. All other shows at €15.00.

13 April - 20 May
Thresholds

An Exhibition to mark the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the British Council in Malta.
Artist Paula Rego selects art works from the British Council Collection for this Whitechapel Gallery exhibition.The artist has delved deep into the Collection to curate an exhibition of over 50 works dating from start of the 20th Century, most of them works on paper - prints, drawings and photographs. Beginning with the work of Sickert and his unvarnished depictions of bedroom encounters in north London, the exhibition includes nudes by Gwen John and Wyndham Lewis, rarely seen early photographs by Cecil Beaton, scurrilous watercolours by Edward Burra, Graham Sutherland's wartime gouaches of tin mining in Cornwall and Lucian Freud's etchings of young girls.

Venue: St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity, Valletta.

14 April

Thanksgiving Mass with the participation of the Bugeja Chapel Orchestra and Ġesu’ Nazzarenu Choir under the direction of Fr. Salv Galea O.P.

Venue: St Dominic’s Parish Church, Valletta. Time: 18.00 hrs.

14 April
George Cross Commemoration Concert

Malta Philharmonic Orchestra presents an eclectic programme as part of the celebrations commemorating the 70th year since the George Cross was awarded to the island of Malta by King George VI.
Venue: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta.
Time: 19.30 hrs.

14 & 15 April 2012 Concert - Gregorian Chant

During Medieval Mdina and for two exceptional nights, the Cathedral Museum makes available an original Gregorian Chant book from its unique collection. The Cappella Gregoriana Jubilate Deo, directed by renowned Maltese conductor Christopher Muscat, will perform live plainchant bringing new life to the centuries-old manuscript.
Venue: Palazzo de Piro Cultural Centre, Mdina.
Time: 19.30 hrs to 20.30 hrs.

14 April

18th Anniversary Foundation Day Concert - organised by The Association of Lyceum Past Students. The programme consists of highlights from the operetta "Il Paese Dei Campanelli" by Carlo Lombardo and Vigilio Ranzato with the participation of Karen Camilleri - Soprano, Connie Francis Zerafa- Mezzo Soprano, Bernard Busuttil- Tenor and Ivan Vella - Baritone and the A.L.P.S Choir trained by Marlene Ferrante. Musical Director Andre' Paul Huber and Corinne Briffa will be at the Piano. The production is directed by Joe Fenech who will be celebrating his sixty years on stage. By donation of Euros 10.00 per person. Contact Joe Fenech tel. 21410632 e-mail mcfenech@maltanet.net or Alex Borg tel 21386812/99888579 e-mail alpsmalta@gmail.com, and the booking office of the Salesian Theatre prior to the event.

Venue: Salesian Theatre, Sliema. Time: 19.30 hrs.

14 April – 1 May

Views of Malta and Europe, etchings and photographs – an exhibition of fine art paintings and prints, presented by ART 4 U.

Venue: Banca Giuratale, Independence Square, Victoria, Gozo.

Opening hours: Monday – Friday 8.00 – 15.00 hrs., Saturday and Sunday 9.00 – 12.00 noon.

15 April Festa Frawli – organised by Mġarr Local Council. Venue: Mġarr.

15 April

Commemoration of the award of the George Cross – presented by the Malta Tourism Authority to commemorate this historic event. One will be able to re-live one of Malta’s most glorious moments in history. The audio visual performance will be accompanied by a heart-rending narration that will bring to life the eventful occasion that took place exactly in the same square in 1942.

Venue: St George’s Square, Valletta Time: 19.30 hrs.

15 April- 15 May:
Calabria Cultural Event - photographic exhibition on Calabrian landscapes by Charles Mifsud.
Venue: Italian Cultural Institute, St George’s Square, Valletta.

17 April
Creation Stories – Moon, Suns, Elephant Trunks and Tiger Stripes

A Shadow Show - Theatre for Children (4-8 yrs) presented by Teatru Qroqq and directed by Isabelle Gatt and Marcelle Theuma. Anansi the African spider and her cousin overseas are storytellers! They have tales and adventures they have collected from different countries which they want to share with you. You’ll find out how the moon and the sun are high up in the sky, and why there is only one sun that shies away during the night, and then you’ll discover some surprising facts about the tiger and the elephant. A gentle and fascinating shadow show with music, dance, song and audience participation. Length of performance – approx. 1 hour.
Venue: M.I.T.P, St Christopher Street, Valletta.
Time: 18.30 hrs.

18 April
Concert of Renzo Spiteri at Hagar Qim
Concert of Renzo Spiteri at Hagar Qim on the occasion of UNESCO World Heritage Day.

18, 19 and 20 May
Desire under the Elms

A play in English by Eugene O’Neill; presented by Teatru Manoel in collaboration with the Malta Drama Centre and the U.S. Embassy.
Venue: Teatru Manoel, Valletta.

19 April
Lost on Journey - Film Screening Venue: Multi-functional Hall, China Cultural Centre, Valletta.
Time: 18:30 hrs.

20, 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29 April

Arsenic and Old Lace
MADC presents this classic play in English by Joseph Kesselring directed by Josette Ciappara. The play is a black comedy classic revolving around Mortimer Brewster, a drama critic who must deal with his crazy, homicidal family and not to mention the local police in Brooklyn, as he debates whether to go through with his recent promise to marry his ‘girl-next-door’ fiancée.
Venue: Teatru Manoel, Valletta.
Time: 20.00 hrs

21 April
Pictures at an Exhibition

Join the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra on this musical adventure, the fruitful result of a collaboration with visual artist Derek Nice and students from Gzira Boys' Secondary. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will be under the direction of Christopher Muscat. Presentation and stage direction will be in the hands of Sarah Spiteri.
Venue: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta.
Time: 18.00 hrs.

20 – 22 April

Springfest Venue: Main Street (near St George’s Parish Church), Qormi. Time: 19.00 hrs.

21 April Band March by the King’s Own Philharmonic Society.

Venue: Along the streets of Valletta. Time: 10.00 hrs.

21 April National Mechanised Fireworks Festival – organised by Floriana Local Council. Venue: Floriana.

22 April St Publius – feast celebrated in Floriana.

23 April St George – feast celebrated in Ħal Qormi.

23 April
Malta International Fireworks Festival organised by the Ministry for Tourism, Environment and Culture and the Malta Tourism Authority. Pyro-musical displays by Pirico (Italy), Scarpato / PyroDigiT (Italy) and a closing display by Mount Carmel Fireworks Factory of Zurrieq, Malta.
Venue: Mdina
Time: 21.30 – 22.45 hrs.

25 April
Malta International Fireworks Festival organised by the Ministry for Tourism, Environment and Culture and the Malta Tourism Authority. A variety of traditional and unique Maltese fireworks (including daylight and night multi-break fireworks and mechanised ground fireworks held amidst a Maltese festa ambience). Various Maltese firework factories are participating.
Venue: Mellieħa.
Time: 18.30 – 23.00 hrs.

25 April
Romancing Beethoven by The Cordia String Quartet

The iconic music of the Great German composer Ludvig van Beethoven will be performed at the Palazzo de Piro. Experience the wonderful world of Beethoven. Experience the power of the rhythm, the melodic expansion and the dynamic contrasts of Beethoven’s music.
Performed works are: Romance in F major Op.50, Romance in G major Op.40, 12 German Dances Op. 8., Quartet in C minor Op.18
Venue: Palazzo de Piro, 3, Bastion Street, Mdina.
Time: 19.30 hrs.
Tickets at the price of 20 Euros can be obtained by sending an e-mail to bookings@baroccomalta.com or events@xarapalace.com.mt

25 May - 24 June
Steve McCurry Photographic Exhibition

Steve McCurry, recognized universally as one of today's finest image-makers, has won many of photography's top awards. Best known for his evocative color photography, McCurry, in the finest documentary tradition, captures the essence of human struggle and joy. Member of Magnum Photos since 1986, McCurry has searched and found the unforgettable; many of his images have become modern icons. Born in Philadelphia, McCurry graduated cum laude from the College of Arts and Architecture at the Pennsylvania State University. After working at a newspaper for two years, he left for India to freelance. It was in India that McCurry learned to watch and wait on life. "If you wait," he realized, "people will forget your camera and the soul will drift up into view."
Venue: St James Cavalier, Valletta

26 April
Malta International Fireworks Festival organised by the Ministry for Tourism, Environment and Culture, the Malta Tourism Authority and St Paul’s Bay Local Council.

A variety of Maltese Ground Fireworks that relate to the chronological development of this form of pyrotechnic display from traditional St. Catherine’s Wheels to mechanised pieces. Various Maltese firework factories are participating as follows: St Joseph Fireworks Factory (Żebbuġ), Santa Marija Fireworks Factory (Mosta), Our Lady of Consolation Fireworks Factory (Gudja), St Catherine’s Fireworks Factory (Żurrieq), Mount Carmel Fireworks Factory (Żurrieq), Lourdes Fireworks Factory (Naxxar), San Bartilimew Fireworks Factory (Għargħur), Santa Marija Fireworks Factory (Għaxaq), Santa Marija Fireworks Factory (Mqabba).
Venue: Buġibba Promenade, St. Paul’s Bay.
Time: 21.00 – 22.30 hrs.

26 April
Concert
The ProMuzika Ensemble and pianist Caroline Calleja will perform works by Vella Muscat, Messiaen and Bartok.
Venue: Sala Isouard, Teatru Manoel, Valletta.
Time: 20.00 hrs

27 April
Music Appreciation Evening led by Aldo Fenech: "George Frideric Handel: Israel in Eygpt Oratorio"- An initiative of the German-Maltese Circle Classical Music Group.
Venue: Messina Palace, Valletta
Time: 18.30 hrs.

27 April
Nostalgic Film Show on big screen – organised by the Żabbar Local Council.
Venue: The Hall, Żabbar Local Council, Żabbar.
Time: 18.30 hrs.

27 June
Bernstein and More Dinner-Concert - A dinner-concert dedicated to the brilliant music of American composer Leonard Bernstein to celebrate the 55th year since the composition of his most famous musical 'The West Side Story'. The concert will highlight some of his famous songs such as 'Tonight' and 'Somewhere' amongst the other compositions which made Bernstein famous. The performers will be the versatile soprano Marita Bezzina, harpist Jacob Portelli and cellist Gilmour Peplow. The performance will also include works from other musicals such as Gershwin's 'Summertime'. The tickets cost 75 euro and are available by contacting Barocco Cultural Events on 7968 0952 or bookings@baroccomalta.com or by contacting The Xara Palace at 21450560 or events@xarapalace.com.mt.
Venue: Palazzo de Piro Cultural Centre, Mdina
Time: 20.30 hrs.

27 April
Malta International Fireworks Festival organised by the Ministry for Tourism, Environment and Culture and the Malta Tourism Authority.
Grandiose pyro-musical display by Lourdes Fireworks Factory (Qrendi Malta), winners of 2011 Malta International Fireworks Festival.
Venue: Valletta Grand Harbour.
Time: 22.00 – 23.00 hrs.

28 April
Malta International Fireworks Festival organised by the Ministry for Tourism, Environment and Culture and the Malta Tourism Authority.
Traditional Maltese aerial and ground firework displays by Gozitan pyrotechnic factories. (This event is being held concurrently with the village fête known as “Seher il-Punent”.
Venue: Għarb, Gozo.
Time: 19.00 – 22.00 hrs.

28 April
Celebrity Concert for Europe – presented by the Sliema Philharmonic Society under the direction of Ronnie Debattista FLCM. Prominent singers to take part in the concert. For more information kindly visit www.sliemabandsacrocuor.org. Ticket hotline: 99443460 or 21 317137.
Venue: Sir Temi Zammit Auditorium, University of Malta, Msida.
Time: 20.00 hrs.

28 April
World Taiji Day in Malta

The last Saturday of April every year is World Taiji Day. The Chinese Culture Center will collaborate with the Malta Judo Federation for a public display of the time-honoured Chinese art of body building and meditation. The show will feature a variety of Taiji forms ranging from Taijiquan to Taiji Sword, displayed by both players from the Chinese Embassy as well as local Maltese Taiji lovers.
Venue：Independence Garden, Sliema.
Time：10:00 hrs.

29 April
Alla Vergine Maria Annunciata - a concert of sacred music by the Għaqda Mużikali Marija Annunzjata. Highlights: Halleluliah from Händel’s Messiah, the Prelude to the Te Deum by Charpentier, Laudate Pueri by Paolo Nani, the premiere of Innu ta’ Ferħ by Prof Joseph Vella and Alla Vergine Maria Annunciata by Lorenzo Gonzi.
Venue: Tarxien Parish Church, Tarxien.
Time: 19.30 hrs.

29 April
Malta International Fireworks Festival organised by the Ministry for Tourism, Environment and Culture and the Malta Tourism Authority. Competition of pyro-musical displays with the participation of Apogee Fireworks of Canada, Phoenix Fireworks of the UK and Jost Fireworks of Austria.
Venue: Valletta Grand Harbour.
Time: 21.00 hrs.

29 April
Shantu and the Dragon - Theatre for children - a Teatru Qroqq project, is a delightful original fairytale in English by Alfred Mallia for children aged 7-11 (or younger if English speaking).
In the imaginary world, Shantu, the protagonist, is a young man whose livelihood is threatened because of polluted water. He decides to find the source of this pollution even if it means facing the unknown, fear, superstition and power. The script is essentially about environmental issues, but is also about finding one's voice, fighting for one's rights and refusing to be exploited.
Venue: The University Chapel, University, Msida.
Time: 18.30 hrs.
Booking through St James Cavalier

30 April
Malta International Fireworks Festival organised by the Ministry for Tourism, Environment and Culture and the Malta Tourism Authority. Competition of pyro-musical displays with the participation of St Michael’s Fireworks Factory (Lija Malta), Mirnovek Fireworks of Croatia and Surex Fireworks of Poland.
Venue: Valletta Grand Harbour.
Time: 21.00 hrs.

May

1 May
Malta International Fireworks Festival organised by the Ministry for Tourism, Environment and Culture and the Malta Tourism Authority. Prize Giving Ceremony and Grand Final pyro-musical display by Parente Fireworks of Italy (non-competitive).
Venue: Valletta Grand Harbour.
Time: 21.00 hrs.

1 May
St Joseph the Worker – feast celebrated in Birkirkara.

1 to 31 May
The China Cultural Centre Reading Month and the Award Quiz
During the Reading Month, the CCC library will be open to the public free of charge and new applicants for the Reader’s Card will enjoy a special offer of €15.00 (originally €30) for Card A (books, magazines & Chinese videos) and €8 (originally €15)for Card B (books and magazines only) in terms of deposit.
Meanwhile, there will be an award quiz. The winners will gain various prizes.
Venue: The Library, Valletta.
Opening Hours: From Monday to Friday 9:00hrs-13:00hrs &15:00-17:30hrs.

3 May
Holy Cross – feast celebrated in Birkirkara.

4 May
Modern Songlines of Walkabout – a recital of 20th century and contemporary music by Equinox Trio, supported by the Australian High Commission. Equinox Trio will be performing Australian and Maltese compositions by Peter Sculthorpe, Douglas Knehans, Richard Mills, Charles Camilleri and Ruben Zahra.
Venue: St James Cavalier, Valletta.
Time: 20.00 hrs.
For bookings please call on 2122 3200

4 May
Malta Philharmonic Orchestra – Teatru Manoel Joint Collaboration Concert (3)
The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of guest conductor Gintaras Rincevikus, present two well loved classics; Rimsky Korsakov’s Scheherazade and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto no 2 with Yorek Ormeny.
Venue Teatru Manoel, Valletta.
Time: 20.00 hrs.

4, 5 May
Gershwin’s An American in Paris
Venue: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta.
Time: 20.00 hrs

5, 6 May
The Great Spring Horticultural Show – organised by the Malta Horticultural Society. A National Show of exhibits of floral designs, fruit, vegetables, pot plants, and agro- industry products. Demonstrations by flower designers, craftsmen and artists, together with exhibits by school children and an entertainment programme spread on both days, make this show an event not to be missed by the whole family.
Venue: San Anton Historic gardens and in the halls of the Presidential Palace, Attard.
Time: 5 May – 14.00 – 22.00 hrs, 6 May – 08.00 – 21.00 hrs.

6 May
St George Preca – feast celebrated in Swatar.

6 May
Day Cultural Tour to Gozo
For further information, kindly contact Mr Noel D’amato on telephone numbers 21 232515, 21247913 or send an e-mail to noel.damato@maltaculture.com

6 & 7 May

Mayfair - Book Fair, Entertainment for all the family, Exhibitions & Demonstrations. Event organised by the Nadur Youth centre in collaboration with Nadur Local Council

Venue: St. Peter & St. Paul Square, Nadur.

6 – 12 May
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week MALT A
More information kindly visit www.fashionweek.com.mt
Venue: MFCC, Ta’ Qali.

6, 13, 27 May
In Guardia Parade – a historical re-enactment organised by the Malta Tourism Authority.
The In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment that portrays an authentic event that took place regularly inside Fort St. Elmo. The re-enactment portrays the inspection of the fort and its garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St. John in charge of military affairs. During the re-enactment, the soldiers and knights of the fort’s garrison - some 70 re-enactors - are kitted-out in their finest uniforms and perform a military drill demonstrating to the Grand Bailiff the garrison’s state of readiness in the event of a military threat. The show begins at 11.00 hrs and lasts for 40 minutes.
Venue: Fort St Elmo Time: 11.00 hrs.

7 May
A mini Swan Lake - by pupils from Pauleen’s Dance Studio. This performance is aimed to suit the likes of the little ones and a hip hop routine will complete their short programme. The performance is part of the Malta Horticultural Spring Festival.
Venue: San Anton Gardens’, Attard.
Time: 11.00 hrs.

9 May

Two Plays about Malta by the Austrian Author Jakob Baxa (1895-1979) -
Illustrated Lecture by Dr Albert Friggieri, B.A.(Hons), M.A. (Heidelberg), Ph,D. (Exon):
Venue: Messina Palace, Valletta
Time: 19.00 hrs.

10 – 31 May
Exhibition by Giorgio Celiberti - Famous Friulian artist and great traveller - one of the most important painters on the contemporary art scene. He has exhibited in many cities worldwide and won the “Sulmona award” in 2003.
Venue: Italian Cultural Institute, St George’s Square, Valletta.

11 May German Film Evening: "Fassbinder's Classics" - Series dedicated to some of the best films directed by Hans Werner Fassbinder
"Satansbraten" colour, 112 min., 1975 - 1976

The crisis of identity, life and creativity of a poet who started out on the left wing, then lost his utopia and now believes he is Stefan George. Although Fassbinder calls it a comedy, this is one of his most bitter, aggressive and despairing works.
Venue: Messina Palace, Valletta
Time: 18.30 hrs.

11 May – 30 June
Peasant Costumes: Insights into Rural Life and Society
An exhibition of popular attire and their pictorial representations in late 18th, 19th and early twentieth century Gozo, which explores the historical context and production processes and materials for peasants’ dress.
Venue: Ministry for Gozo, St Francis Square, Victoria, Gozo.

11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 27 May; 1, 2, 3 June

Ghostwriter -The True Story
FM Theatre presents this play by David Tristram.
A London theatre company decides to stage a new production of Shakespeare’s Hamlet - fronted by TV Soap star Julian Dando and backed by a cast of second-rate hams. At the last-night party, Edward Pinfold, a promising young playwright, and husband of the talented but tempestuous actress, Ruby, faces the shock of his wife's death. One year later, Edward remains deeply affected. Unable to face the emotional torment of living in his own home, he moves into the attic room of one of his oldest actor friends, Alex. What happens next, as Alex once famously said, could be a bit hard to swallow. We join the story on the first anniversary of the death of Ruby Pinfold …
Venue: St James Cavalier, Valletta
Time: 20.00 hrs.

12 May
I Grandi Operisti Italiani – World famous Soprano Roberta Canzian and Baritone Mario Cassi, both from Milan’s La Scala Opera House. Arias and duettos from Italy's greatest opera composers will be performed,including Il Barbiere di siviglia by gioacchino rossini; La Sonnambula by Vincenzo Bellini; Rigoletto and La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi; Don Pasquale by Gaetano Donizetti; Gianni Schicchi and La Boheme by Giacomo Puccini. Pianist Ulla Casalini will accompany these two leading Italian opera singers. The Concert is produced and presented by Fiesole Artistic Productions in collaboration with the Italian Cultural Institute. Presentations will be by Music Critic Albert G. Storace.
Venue: Manoel Theatre, Valletta.
Time: 19.30 hrs.
Booking open from The Manoel Theatre,Booking Office, Old Theatre Street,Valletta. Telephone: 21246389, website: www.teatrumanoel.com
Email:bookings@teatrumanoel.com.mt

12 May
Lejla fil-Belt Hompesch – Festival of Arts, Culture and History organised by the Żabbar Local Council in collaboration with the Malta Tourism Authority.
Venue: Żabbar
Time: 19.00 hrs.

12 May
I Grandi Operisti Italiani
Fiesole Artistic Productions with the collaboration of the Italian Cultural Institute present La Scala opera singers in concert. Soprano Roberta Canzian and baritone Mario Cassi supported by pianist Ulla Casalini will perform selections from Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Don Pasquale, La Traviata, Boheme and Rigoletto
Venue Teatru Manoel, Valletta.

13 May
Day Cultural Tour to Gozo
For further information, kindly contact Mr Noel D’amato on telephone numbers 21 232515, 21247913 or send an e-mail to noel.damato@maltaculture.com

17 May
Glittering Day - Film Screening
Venue: Multi-functional Hall, China Cultural Centre, Valletta.
Time: 18:30hrs

19 May

Movie Spectacular

The ever popular Movie Spectacular is back for the 5th edition presenting the ‘Movie Classics’. Music from blockbuster movies will be performed live under the direction of Kevin Abela.
Venue Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta.
Time: 19.30 hrs.

19, 20 May
Festa Lapsi organised by the Xagħra Local Council.

Venue: Xagħra, Gozo

20 May Alarme - is a military re-enactment that portrays the historic and turbulent tenure of Malta by the French troops, following Napoleon’s landing and conquest of Malta (1798 – 1800). The story recounts the landing of the French troops - the subsequent administration of the Maltese Islands by the new Republican government - the rebellion of the Maltese that led to the blockade of the French troops inside the harbour towns.-the surrender of the French troops at the hands of the British. The re-enactment lasts 50 minutes.

Venue: Fort St Elmo, Valletta. Time: 11.00 hrs.

20 May
Irkotta Fest 2012 – a whole day agroturistic festival organised by Kunsill Lokali Kirkop. This festival features traditional production of Irkotta which was one of the main food ingredients in the locality, and is still being produced daily. A dairy competition will be held in the morning for the best milking cow and best cow on show.
Venue: Kirkop (Centre)

20 May The Annunciation – feast celebrated in Ħal Tarxien.

22 May St Augustine – feast celebrated in Valletta.

22 May St Paul – feast celebrated in Munxar, Gozo.

24 May
Piano Recital by Alexei Galea
Venue: Isouard Hall, Teatru Manoel, Valletta.
Time:
25 May Music Appreciation Evening led by Martin Spiteri: "Gustav Mahler: Sixth Symphony"
An initiative of the German-Maltese Circle Classical Music Group
Venue: Messina Palace, Valletta
Time: 18.30 hrs.
25 May

Malta Philharmonic Orchestra Concert Series at Teatru Manoel

The four-concert series concludes in style with an all British programme featuring the participation of soprano Gillian Zammit singing Britten’s Les Illuminations under the direction of Michael Laus. Orchestra leader Marcelline Agius follows with Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending and the evening concludes with Elgar’s magnificent Enigma Variations.
Venue: Teatru Manoel, Valletta.
Time: 19.30 hrs.

25 May
Nostalgic Film Show on big screen organised by the Żabbar Local Council.
Venue: The Hall, Żabbar Local Council, Żabbar.
Time: 18.30 hrs.
25 May Qormi Day Band March Venue: Starting from St Sebastian Parish Church, Qormi.
26 May
Vocal Aid
Produced by F&M Productions Limited.
Venue: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta.
Time: 19.30 hrs

June

June to September
China through my Eyes
Drawing Competition for Children
Sponsored by the China Culture Centre and the Ministry of Education. This activity applies to all children in Malta under 12 years of age. There will be one first prize, two second prizes and three third prizes for winners.

3 June
St Augustine – feast celebrated in Valletta.

3 June
Holy Trinity – feast celebrated in Marsa.

3 June
Our Lady of Fatima – feast celebrated in Gwardamanġa.

3 June
St Joseph – feast celebrated in Ħal Għaxaq.

3 June
St Anthony – feast celebrated in Għajnsielem, Gozo.

3 – 10 June
St Philip – feast celebrated in Żebbuġ
During the week one can enjoy daily band marches and sky fireworks displays.

3, 10, 17, 24 June
In Guardia Parade – a historical re-enactment organised by the Malta Tourism Authority.
The In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment that portrays an authentic event that took place regularly inside Fort St. Elmo. The re-enactment portrays the inspection of the fort and its garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St. John in charge of military affairs. During the re-enactment, the soldiers and knights of the fort’s garrison - some 70 re-enactors - are kitted-out in their finest uniforms and perform a military drill demonstrating to the Grand Bailiff the garrison’s state of readiness in the event of a military threat. The show begins at 11.00 hrs and lasts for 40 minutes.
Venue: Fort St Elmo Time: 11.00 hrs

6 June
Victoria International Arts Festival – Opening Concert
Malta Philharmonic Orchestra opens the 15th edition of the Victoria International Arts Festival, under the baton of Joseph Vella.
Venue: St George’s Basilica, Victoria, Gozo
Time: 19.30 hrs

7 June
Qormi Road Race – a 10Km Qormi Road Race.
Venue: Starting from Victory Street, in front of Qormi Local Council.
Time: 8.00 hrs.

7 June
Sette Giugno Commemorative ceremony
A National Festivities event
Venue: Hastings Garden, Valletta.

7 June
Open Day NMFA (Re-Painted by Friends of the National Museum of Fine Arts), Malta Maritime Museum, Inquisitor’s Palace, and National Museum of Natural History. Entrance Free.

8 - 10 June
Għanafest- Malta Mediterranean Folk Music Festival
Celebrating the folk music heritage of the Mediterranean. Besides għana (Maltese folksong), the festival presents a selection of local ensembles, Maltese songwriters and folk musicians from Mediterranean countries or countries that influenced music in this region. This year the international guests for Għanafest are: Nakaira from Sicily, Navà ensemble Persian music and Swing a la Turc quartet from Turkey. Għanafest also hosts a series of workshops on traditional instruments and a special programme for children. A wonderful event for the whole family complemented by traditional Maltese food in the marvellous surroundings of the Argotti botanical gardens in Floriana.
Further information may be found on www.matafolkmusicfestival.org
Venue: Argotti Botanical Gardens, Floriana
Time: 19.00 hrs

9 June
Bis-Saħħa Wine Festival – organised by Ta’ Klula Foundation. The festival will include wine, live music, entertainment and traditional food. Entrance is free.
Venue: Village Main Square of Sta. Lucija, Gozo.
Time: 20.00 hrs onwards.

10 June
Corpus Christi – feast celebrated in Rabat and Għasri, Gozo.

10 June
St Philip – feast celebrated in Ħaż-Żebbuġ.

14 June
Camel Collar - Film Screening
Venue: Multi-functional Hall, China Cultural Centre, Valletta.
Time: 18:30 hrs.

15, 16 June
Festa Bdiewa – organised by the Burmarrad Administrative Committee together with the Burmarrad Feast Committee. This activity unites the small village of Burmarrad and provide also a source of entertainment adequate to the farming class. Moreover, heritage sites are promoted through organising a mass at San Pawl Milqi Chapel, located near the largest Roman Villa in Malta. This event gives the opportunity to these people to showcase their collections. The residents will be given the opportunity to showcase their works such as lace, ceramic dolls and ‘arkett’.
Venue: Burmarrad Square, Burmarrad.
Time: 20.00 hrs.

15 -17 June
Fiori D’Argenta – a festival of Arts, Culture, History, Music and Traditions including Feasts Exhibition. This event is being organised by the Xewkija Local Council.
Venue: Xewkija.

16 June
Fontana Fireworks Festival – organised by Fontana Local Council.
Venue: Fontana, Gozo.

16 June-10/12 July
Exhibition by Paola Failla - Featuring oil, temperas and mixed techniques in an exhibition of one of the most interesting artists of contemporary art. Her activity began in 1984. She works between Italy and France.
Venue: Italian Cultural Institute, St George’s Square, Valletta.

16 June - 16 September:
Exhibition on ceramics of Caltagirone - The ceramics of Caltagirone, for centuries synonymous with quality and artistic ability of those who, for generations, have carried out one of the oldest trades of all times.
Venue: Italian Cultural Institute, St George’s Square, Valletta.

17 June
Our Lady of the Lily – feast celebrated in Mqabba.

17 June
Sacred Heart of Jesus – feast celebrated in Fontana, Gozo.

17 June
St Catherine – feast celebrated in Żejtun.

19 June
The nuns and monastery of St Mary Magdalene Valletta - Lecture by Ms. Christine Muscat on the Church of the Magdalene nuns, adjacent to their monastery, that was built in the early 1590's and later become the Civil Hospital Chapel.

21 June
Merħba lir-Rebbiegħa – classical musical soirée; with the participation of musicians from Żabbar.
Venue: The Hall, Żabbar Local Council, Żabbar.
Time: 18.30 hrs.

21 June
Summer Solstice
Experience the Summer Solstice from Mnajdra or Ħaġar Qim Temples. Also includes a tour of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples and a visit to the Visitor Centre. Tickets can be purchased from all Heritage Malta sites/museums for the price of €15 per person and €10 for Heritage Malta, ICOM and ICOMOS members. Meeting time is 5.30am in front of the Visitor Centre. Limited places. For further information contact 21424231. An exhibition about ‘Everyday Life in Prehistory’ shall also be on display at the Visitor Centre.

22 June
Our Lady of Pinu – feast celebrated in Ta’ Pinu. Gozo.

22 June
Ħidmet Missirijietna – organised by Mġarr Local Council.
Venue: Mġarr.

23 June
The Bandu tal-Imnarja, the forthcoming Mnarja equine races, which the town crier heralds is re-enacted by the Agrarian Society and the Malta Tourism Authority at Mdina, Rabat and Valletta on the last Saturday preceeding the 28th June. A number of Palji, to be awarded to the winners of the Equine races, are paraded in the streets.

23 & 24 June Agricultural Fair - exhibition of local fruit, vegetables and farm animals by Nadur farmers, crafts exhibition, and antique farm equipment together with blessing of animals. Live entertainment will be performed during this event
Venue: L-Arcipriet Martin Camilleri Square, Nadur (il-Pjazzetta)

24 June
St John the Baptist – feast celebrated in Xewkija, Gozo.

24 June
St Nicholas – feast celebrated in Siġġiewi.

24 June
St George – feast celebrated in Ħal Qormi.

24 June
Sacred Heart of Mary – feast celebrated in Burmarrad.

28 June
Serata ta’ Lejlet l-Imnarja – an evening organised by the Żabbar Local Council.
Venue: Mediatrix Place, Żabbar.
Time: 19.00 hrs.

28 and 29 June
Mnarja
A programme of activities to commemorate the traditional feast of St Peter and St Paul including folk singing and village band music on the 28th; and the traditional horse races at Racecourse Street, Rabat on the 29th.
This is a National Folklore Commission event in collaboration with the Agrarian Society, and the Rabat and Mdina Local Councils.
Venue: Buskett Gardens and Rabat

29 June
St Peter and St Paul – feast celebrated in Mdina and Nadur, Gozo.

29 June
Nostalgic Film Show on big screen – organised by the Żabbar Local Council.
Venue: The Hall, Żabbar Local Council, Żabbar.
Time: 18.30 hrs.

29 June
Open Day Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra and St Paul’s Catacombs. Entrance Free.

30 June
Annalise Ellul’s Annual School Show
Venue: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta.
Time: 18.30 hrs