Theatre Studies students on Valletta as European Capital of Culture 2018

The prospect of Valletta being named the ‘European Capital of Culture 2018’ could affect us positively and negatively. It would attract a lot of tourists and revenue, but with the state the island is in at the moment, we might not live up to people’s and the title’s expectations.

However, I think the change should affect us visually, aesthetically, and more importantly perhaps, psychologically. We have to purge this idea that still lurks on our shores that art and culture are less important than other elements of a nation. Nicolà Abela Garrett

One can only hope that this prestigious European title will bring nothing but good things for Malta. It should help the European community recognise Malta as the hub for culture it really is as well as hopefully boosting our self-worth as Maltese.

I believe that, slowly but surely, the Maltese population is starting to warm up to the idea of change on all levels. However, this process is a slow one. This is why, unfortunately, a solely visual and aesthetic change is something that is very possible. Ema Marie Attard

I’m very hopeful that the attitude towards culture and arts will change, as Malta will be hosting such a prestigious event and also because when something new is about to happen people tend to give it more importance. Tezara Camilleri