Manoel to rock

This year's GlobalCapital Teatru Unplugged needs no introduction. The live concert at the Manoel Theatre has, over almost a decade, proven to be a sell-out due to its mix of musical acts.

The event has four main objectives: To attract a new and young audience to the Manoel Theatre; to expose audiences to different music genres; promote local talent; and to offer a good night out, with a difference, said its producers Jonathan Shaw, Dave Shaw and Nirvana Azzopardi.

This ninth edition will stick to its winning formula with its line-up: Chasing Pandora, Brikkuni and Ira Losco, moving on to the classic rock band Muzzle and climaxing with Gianni, together with his fun and boisterous band Rug.

Chasing Pandora, the singer/songwriter duo from Gozo - Melissa Portelli and Keith Anthony - was formed when record producer and manager Steve Brown heard Melissa singing and was so impressed by her voice and the pure emotion it conveyed that he coupled her with Keith, who's soulful guitar playing he had long admired.

The two perform primarily using just voice and acoustic guitar, which allows them to express their intimacy and spontaneity and convey the pathos in their compositions.

Ira Losco has been the best-selling artist in Malta for three consecutive years, having released two number one albums, a string of number one singles and winning every conceivable award from Image Icon to Best Single and Best Artist.

Brikkuni are driven by an urge to "put the Maltese back into Maltese folk music", while Muzzle is composed of a group of good friends and seasoned musicians who enjoy gigging in pubs and other venues with their classic rock set - "just for the fun of it and to celebrate good rock music".

Rug successfully mixes music and entertainment. And for a bit more of the latter, and a dose of humour, stand-up comedians Zoo are compering the show this year.

GlobalCapital Teatru Unplugged 9 will be on at the Manoel Theatre in Valletta on December 1, 2 and 3 at 8 p.m. Tickets cost Lm4, Lm6 and Lm7.50 and can be bought online from www.teatru manoel.com and via e-mail bookings@teatrumanoel.com.mt or by calling 2124 6389.