A 25-metre-wide lightweight roof features in the latest plans for the redesign of Valletta's entrance and, specifically, the open-air theatre proposed by Italian architect Renzo Piano.

The plans, which have been submitted to the planning authority, are not conclusive but the idea is to shelter performers and any technical equipment from light showers by means of a light structure, possibly covered in a waterproof fabric. The partial roof, which can be moved, will also allow lighting and sound equipment to hang from it and serve to reflect sound.

The addition comes as many in the art scene complained that Mr Piano's proposal for an open-air venue was impractical and would not suit the needs of local theatre.

The proposals, made by the world-renowned architect last June, incorporate the redevelopment of City Gate, a new Parliament building in Freedom Square and the redevelopment of the old opera house site into an open space that will incorporate the bombed ruins to produce a 1,200-seat theatre.

"I think this is going to be one of the most magic places in the Mediterranean," Mr Piano had said enthusiastically about the theatre in an interview with The Times about his plans.

But many in the art scene in Malta did not share the excitement. In fact, last week, the government was faced with a petition by 128 prominent personalities opposing the concept of an open-air space.

The addition of the 25-metre span actually came before the petition but was a reaction to the first comments by the public following an exhibition showing the project in detail and which was aimed as a consultation exercise.

Mr Piano had stressed that the opera house site was not big enough to house a contemporary theatre able to join the European opera circuit.

In fact, the site was not deemed adequate to house the Parliament building, as the government had originally proposed. Instead, Mr Piano had proposed to restore the ruins and turn them into a piazza which, in the summer months, could be turned into a theatre that is partly shielded by sail-like, side panels.

The subject is now likely to be discussed at a meeting the Prime Minister said he was willing to have with Mr Piano and representatives of the artistes and theatre buffs opposing the idea.

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