Third phase of Manoel Theatre's restoration

The third phase of the Manoel Theatre restoration project is scheduled to begin soon and will now comprise the restoration of the proscenium, it was announced last week.

Consideration of planning and schedules is then expected to resume to examine the eventual complex refurbishment of the auditorium ceiling.

Details of the works in progress and the next phase were given by the Manoel Theatre Restoration Committee during a media briefing. Professor Sante Guido, who heads the team of professionals from the Istituto Centrale di Restauro of Rome, explained the restoration process to date, highlighting the important discovery of the paintings on the balconies that were unearthed and that could shed new light on the history of the Theatre.

The chairman of the Manoel Theatre, Wilfred Kenely, expressed his satisfaction on the progress that has been made and said that the next phase will cover one of the main features of the theatre and the most evident to visitors.

Referring to the paintings that were discovered in the course of the restoration work, Mr Kenely said that these are of a great historical significance as they could reflect the change in cultures adopted through the different eras of the theatre's existence.

"We are all enthusiastic on these discoveries and eager to delve further to establish if these paintings were part of the original décor of the theatre," Mr Kenely said. "However, we cannot move ahead with the research before we get the advice of the Superintendent, which we appeal must be forthcoming without further delay."

He thanked Malta International Airport plc, the main sponsors of the restoration project, and the other sponsors, including Din l-Art Helwa through Computime, adding that this was a clear example of a successful public-private partnership both in financial terms and expertise to ensure a professional job on this gem of a national monument.

"The Manoel Theatre, perhaps even more than so many other heritage sites Malta may boast of, is evidently an added value to Malta as a touristic destination; to Malta as a landmark for cultural tourism; that type of tourism we should be promoting today," Peter Bolech CEO of MIA said.

"For this reason and also because it is so much attached to the core of Maltese society, we have chosen to assist in restoring it to its original splendour," he added.

The press briefing was introduced by Rosette Fenech, MIA head of Communications and chairperson of the Manoel Theatre Restoration Committee, who thanked the other sponsors Din l-Art Helwa who contribute through Computime, as well as the Valletta Restoration Project who, though prevented from honouring their commitment in financial terms, did not stop short of affording guidance and expertise through their president, Dr Ray Bondin.