Final touches to classical music concert at Fort Manoel

Final preparations are in full swing for the grand classical music concert at Fort Manoel tomorrow that is expected to draw 3,000 people.

The concert is starring tenor Joseph Calleja, one of Malta's biggest names on the world's classical music circuit, and his wife, the internationally renowned soprano Tatiana Lisnic.

Mr Calleja visited the site on Tuesday when he met with Midi plc chairman Albert Mizzi and chief executive Ben Muscat. Midi are the main sponsors of the concert. Also present were Anton Tabone and Amabile Zammit, directors of Renaissance Productions, promoters of the event.

"Joseph's ever growing popularity in Malta and overseas, the seasoned talents of soprano Tatiana Lisnic, mezzo-soprano Elena Zaremba, baritone Vittorio Vitelli together with those of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra coupled with the grandeur of Fort Manoel has led to a complete sell-out," the organisers said.

Midi was proud, Mr Mizzi said, that Renaissance Productions and Mr Calleja had chosen Fort Manoel to organise such a prestigious concert.

"Once works at the fort are completed, we plan to host major world-class events on an annual basis and these will help place both Manoel Island and Malta on the international cultural calendar," he said.

Due to limited parking facilities, a shuttle service is being organised to take patrons right up to the concert venue from the Manoel Island bridge and various parking areas at Manoel Island. To avoid traffic congestion concert goers are advised to car pool. Patrons have to be seated by 8.45 p.m., 15 minutes before the concert starts. Midi are the sponsors of the first Malta International Fashion Show, which will be held at Fort Manoel on July 15, being organised by Renaissance Productions Ltd.