Unplugged and unstoppable

For the eighth consecutive year, and following on its previous successes, Bulgari Teatru Unplugged is being held at the Manoel Theatre next month - keeping its annual appointment with its loyal audience, as well as it firm position on the cultural calendar.

The unique live concert in the baroque national theatre has, over almost a decade, proven to be a sell-out due to its mix of musical acts.

Born with the intention to attract younger audiences of non-theatre-goers to the national theatre, its aim was also to provide a platform for young, up-and-coming artistes and an opportunity for them to perform in Malta's most prestigious theatre.

"We have now reached a point where established artistes are contacting us themselves to participate. They see it as an event with a difference. As much as this is flattering, it is also a problem as we can only accommodate a limited number," said one of the producers, Jonathan Shaw.

The eighth edition of live music in its many genres continues to stick to its winning formula, featuring an interesting line-up of talent.

The event will be a build-up that grows from solo guitarist Fraser Gregory and British female pianist Aura to percussionist Renzo Spiteri with his Latin jazz quartet, on to a quintet, Tango for Five, which has been set up specifically for the event, moving on to full-blown classic rock band Scar and climaxing with Gianni, who is no newcomer to the show, together with his boisterous band Rug.

As regards the evolution of Teatru Unplugged over the years, Mr Shaw said the formula is there to stay. "It works!"

Past editions had seen the inclusion of dance, but this year, the focus is totally on the music; "it is very unplugged and a showcase of good-quality talent. The members of Tango for Five, for example, all play with the National Orchestra and so is Renzo Spiteri's group composed of professional musicians."

The important thing is that the artistes are given the space to express themselves, he said.

"Other events, such as the National Orchestra Goes Pop, indicate that, nowadays, so much is happening on the events scene that you have to adapt to different tastes and move away from the traditional. It is important to cross events sometimes to avoid stagnation."

Presented by Antonio Tufigno, known for his humour, and produced by Nirvana Azzopardi, Dave Shaw and Jonathan Shaw, Bulgari Teatru Unplugged VIII is being held at the Manoel Theatre on December 9, 10 and 11.

Tickets cost Lm3.50, Lm5.50 and Lm7.50 and can be purchased online from www.teatrumanoel.com, by e-mail bookings@teatrumanoel.com.mt, or by calling 2124 6389.