Saturday, 11th October 2008
Valletta needs a cultural centre
A few days ago, I went to the Manoel Theatre Café for some refreshment, and afterwards wanted to go and visit the Manoel shop. Unfortunately, however, I was told the shop had been closed over 12 months ago due to a lack of support. This I found sad, as I had visited the shop on several occasions on previous visits to Malta and admired the beautiful prints and books on opera subjects. I had even purchased a complete Murano glass collection of miniature musicians with instruments. In addition to the above, I am sorry to learn that even 10 years after the rebuilding of the derelict Opera House was proposed, and despite plans for this having been drawn up and I believe approved, the situation remains unsolved to date.
Of course this would require a multimillion euro backing from the EU, and in these difficult financial times, some would say the money would be better used to improve transport and social conditions in Malta. Fair point, but surely a World Heritage City like Valletta deserves a cultural centre that would not only attract an influential international following but also a rejuvenated and elegant shopping and hotel complex which is very much needed for a capital city. This, surely, would make Valletta a Jewel of the Mediterranean and the Knights that defended Malta against the Turks would be proud of it.
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Following is an email I sent to various Malta Gov. and NGO's, as well as The times.
If you can bear with me, I have a dream. A historic and most cherished edifice is now and has been serving as a latrine, parking lot etc. Malta should think about rebuilding the Old Opera House to its original pre-war magnificence. Seeing how Malta has been and is now catering to so many movie stars and other world high-profile well-heeled professionals, including interests from Dubai and multi-national corporations, I would pull together all the banks, Malta Gov., Tourist organizations and discuss ways of funding a rebuild project. The Gov. should take on the world with appeals to Maltese everywhere to contribute to a central fund with deposits at the local banks. A massive advertising project and appeals to famous movie stars who cherish memories of Malta to contribute to such a noble cause. Perhaps a permanent plaque with names of famous contributors could be displayed in the lobby of a resurrected Old Opera House which would bring so much attention to Malta and enhance its stature in the world.