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Malta Theatre: The Origins and Development of Manoel - Destination Specials, Top Holiday Destinations - 224 views

Malta is more renowned for its blonde beaches and azure waters than for its theatre productions. However, to visit the island and not explore the Maltese theatres would be a small tragedy, as the theatres Malta hosts are marvels in their own right. Although only a handful of Maltese theatres exist, they are as much a part of Malta’s heritage as other historical sites and exhibit the fine craftsmanship of their time. Below is a description of Malta’s oldest theatre, including its history and current performances.

Manoel Theatre, Malta

After centuries of political disorder, the Sovereign Military Order of Malta resulted in a period of stability and development on the islands. Valletta became the administrative capital of the Order and witnessed further development as the cultural hub. By the 17th century, the demand for opera and theatre in Malta warranted the construction of a dedicated theatre house. In 1731 the Grand Master at the time Manoel de Vilhena, commissioned and sponsored the building of Malta’s first public theatre. Modelled around the semi-circular design of the Palermo Theatre in Italy it was made entirely from wood. January 9th 1732 saw the grand opening, a production of Scipione Maffei’s tragedy, Merope. It continued to specialise in operas and French tragedies for the next sixty years. During these years, Malta’s Manoel theatre witnessed French rule, civil strife and then liberation.

By the 19th century the Malta Manoel theatre became known as the Royal Theatre and was revamped to accommodate larger audiences. Eventually though, its popularity exceeded its size and the Malta Manoel theatre was sold as people were drawn to a recently completed opera house. A fire in this new opera house gave the Manoel theatre in Malta a new lease on life, but after the reconstruction of the fire-damaged opera house, numbers ceased again. A second rebirth was experienced after that same opera house was destroyed in World War Two. The Malta Manoel theatre once again rose from the ashes. Extensive restoration programme saw the return of its former beauty and grandeur, officially reopening in 1960. The Manoel theatre is Malta, is truly a gem of national heritage.

The Manoel Theatre Today

Today the premier theatre of Malta hosts a variety of performances, from musicals and plays to stand up comedies and concerts. Productions for January and February include Alice in Wonderland, an Evening of Chamber Music, Oliver Twist and an Evening with Beethoven. For a comprehensive list visit the Malta Manoel website.

Penny Munroe is an avid writer in travel news from around the world and aims to educate readers on the myriad of world destinations and cultures. Based in a Malta Hotel, she is currently exploring the islands of Malta, Goza and Comino.

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