Malta Arts Festival's first act tomorrow

Last minute preparations will be taking place today as acts are rehearsed, sound checks are conducted and sets are dressed for the opening night of Malta's third Arts Festival. Visitors can expect an eclectic mixture of music, drama, poetry, art, food and drink from around the world at the event which is becoming increasingly recognised internationally.

The festival will kick off with the Stefan Cassar & Quator Stringendo Piano Quintet, who will be performing chamber music at the Palace Courtyard at 9 p.m. tomorrow.

There really is something for everyone with performances of Vince Vella's The Pardon Beggars at St James Cavalier running from July 2 to 5, and an array of choral, jazz, contemporary, classical and opera music, photography, ballet, Shakespeare, street theatre and art exhibitions.

Ticket prices vary and there are several free events. All performances start at 9 p.m. However, Spanish Blood, a street theatre rendition of Carmen at Għar id-Dud, Sliema commences at 7.30 p.m. on July 13 and 14. This event is free to attend.

A street party will be held in South Street, Valletta, on July 11-13 also at 7.30 p.m. The Marsovin Summer Wine Festival is due to be held between Friday and Sunday at Hastings Gardens, Valletta at 8 p.m., entrance at €4.

The Malta Arts Festival will run until July 17. Tickets are available from www.maltaticket.com, Exotique, Agenda, Vodafone, Bookends and Newskiosk. For more details visit www.maltaartsfestival. com.