Glitz, glamour and many of the world’s best-loved songs will swing onto the Teatru Manoel stage on 7 December for A Versatile Christmas concert that signals the start of our national theatre’s fabulous festive celebrations.
Starring the magical voices and performances of Nadine Axisa, Pamela Bezzina, Christine Dalli, Nadia Vella, Martina Borg and Adrian Galea Lucas, A Versatile Christmas will bring spectacle and joy to two performances on 7 December – one at 6.30pm and one at 9pm. The result – led by creative artist Antoine Farrugia – promises to be a musical evening that puts a true spring in your step as you walk back onto the beautifully lit streets of festive Valletta.
“Pandemic restrictions mean things still feel a little different in the world of the arts, and it was impossible for us to produce our much-loved panto this year,” explains Teatru Manoel CEO Massimo Zammit. “But the theatre team eagerly wanted to create festive magic all the same, so we knew we had to come up with something extra special to launch our Christmas Series!”
Teatru Manoel entrusted the organisation of the evening to creative artist Antoine Farrugia, and the team has since worked tirelessly to create an alternative evening out that will be fun and memorable for the whole family, and which will bring an unbeatable atmosphere to the theatre.
“I knew the Versatile Brass Band would be the ideal musicians to craft exactly the kind of mood we wanted, and I approached Versatile owner and director Paul Borg with our idea for this concert,” says Mr Farrugia, who built his own reputation on the local arts scene at the helm of Notte Bianca. “We got the ball rolling immediately!”
A Versatile Christmas boasts a toe-tapping programme that includes the romance of Le Vie En Rose, the buzz of Fever & Feeling Good, the Spanish vibrancy of the Habanera, the classic appeal of My Way and New York, New York, and so much more. Combine all of that with the sheer magnificence of Teatru Manoel and the unparalleled line up of performers, and what could be better?
“We believe A Versatile Christmas will capture the hearts of music lovers of all ages – giving families the chance to do something really special together this Christmas,” smiles Mr Zammit, who adds that the concert forms part of the diversified programme that the Manoel has created for the coming season. “As the name suggests, this is the perfect multi-generational outing with songs that can be hummed along to! There really is nothing more extraordinary than getting into the festive spirit at Teatru Manoel.”
A Versatile Christmas will be held on 7 December at 6.30pm and 9pm. Tickets are limited, and early booking is recommended. Bookings can be made online here. The theatre welcomes anyone aged 6+.
