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Vol.
The Theatre in Malta
Cecilia Xuereb
This publication was put together to mark Fsetting up of a permanent exhibition dealing with the story of the theatre in the Maltese Islands. This project was executed in close collaboration with the Manoel Theatre Management Committee.
The book highlights the theatre as playing a leading role in Maltese cultural heritage. It provides the reader with a historical background of the Manoel Theatre, the oldest to be still in use in Europe, as well as a detailed account on the building of the short-lived Royal Opera House (1861-1866).
The history of the theatre in Malta is analysed through unpublished drawings, scenographic architecture, performances and performers alike. Furthermore, an in-depth study of unpublished 18th century chronicles is provided, describing the contemporary theatre scene as a focal point of social interaction - an arena in which vanities and passions were daily enacted. Apparently more drama happened outside the curtain than behind it!
CONTENTS
Theatre and Theatre-Making in Malta
Paul Xuereb
A Survey of Unpublished Drawings relating to the Manoel Theatre
Konrad Buhagiar & David Drago
A Stage to Produce Dreams: Scenographic Architecture at the Manoel
Vicki Ann Cremona
Opera in Malta during the 18th Century
Alfred Miceli
Grins and Groans at the Manoel Theatre
Giovanni Bonello
The Building of the Royal Opera House - 1861-1866
Michael Ellul
Maltese Composers and Opera Composition
Joseph Vella Bondin
Behind the Curtains of an Impresario
Anthony Miceli Farrugia
A Night at the Opera
John Wignacourt
