Valletta comes alive to the sound of artistes

The Valletta Alive Foundation presented Bank of Valletta with the official logo of the upcoming BOV Valletta Streets Alive initiative due to kick off on July 28.

The logo was presented by Alfred Zahra, chairman of the Valletta Alive Foundation, to Tonio Depasquale, the bank's CEO during a meeting to discuss the programme of events.

"We are extremely delighted with the preparations that are underway for the organisation of this colourful programme of music, culture and art which is set to enliven Valletta's streets this summer," Mr Depasquale said.

"Our support towards the BOV Streets Alive initiative stems from our commitment to support events that enrich our cultural and artistic talent as well as events that are conducive towards enhancing the cultural calendar linked to the reviving of our capital city," he added.

He said BOV is taking an active role this summer by supporting a number of important cultural initiatives, including the Malta Arts Festival. Mr Zahra explained that the Valletta Alive Foundation works in the interests of Valletta. One of its objectives is to contribute towards the regeneration of the capital city. "Culture is a strong vehicle for regeneration," Mr Zahra said, adding that the BOV Streets Alive will focus on on-street activity in the evening. It will complement the Malta Arts Festival that will be held between July 28 and August 20 at the Royal Opera House ruins.

"The main streets of Valletta will come to life with activities ranging from live musicians, visual artists painting spontaneously in the streets, children's entertainment, a classic car show and sport exhibitions. A select number of shops will remain open for late evening shopping until 9.30 p.m. and will offer special discounts on the four consecutive Fridays. Restaurants will also remain open to cater for the patrons of the Malta Arts Festival who will be encouraged to stay on in the city for after-performance dining," Mr Zahra said.

The BOV Streets Alive programme will be held for four consecutive Fridays until August 18, with activities running between 6.30 and 9 p.m.