Theatrical tribute to a Maltese literary icon

When you meet the men behind Għażiż Francis, a theatrical tribute to Francis Ebejer, one thing that is immediately clear is their passion for the literary icon.

The trio made up of Peter Busuttil, Pino Scicluna and Marco Galea all bring something different to the project.

Mr Busuttil, an actor-turned-director, was tutored by the man himself, even directing a performance of critically acclaimed Boulevard, while a monologue by Mr Scicluna, an actor, was Ebejer's inspiration for Il-Gaħan ta' Binġemma. Their enthusiasm for the legendary playwright, novelist, poet and artist is matched by academic and historian Marco Galea's vast expertise and detailed knowledge of Ebejer's work. Together they have created what Mr Busuttil describes as a truly "Ebejeresque" experience.

The trio's second production of Għażiż Francis promises an atmospheric tribute to the life and works of Ebejer in an exciting tapestry of Maltese history, Ebejer's literature and life.

Structured around the play Time, a semi-autobiographical work about an individual who is awaiting death, Għażiż Francis is set to be much more than a simple montage or collage but the performance promises to be an experiential tribute to the author whose prolific realm of work spans five decades and nine languages.

Held at the suitably iconic Auberge de Castille courtyard, last year's performance was attended by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi. The unique architecture of the building features a balcony which circles the building's high walls, creating an omnipresence in Ebejer's character, enforced by the fact that the part is played by both Mr Busuttil and Mr Scicluna and a support cast of 10 other actors and actresses.

Għażiż Francis is due to be performed on Monday and Tuesday at 9 p.m. Tickets cost €8 and are available from maltaticket.com, Exotique, Agenda, Vodafone, Bookends and Newskiosk.

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