There are only a few days and a few tickets left for Balzunetta Towers, one of the most highly anticipated events of this year’s Malta Summer Arts Festival, involving more than 100 people in a show that will run in less than a week’s time.
Among this pool of people is established cartoonist Seb Tanti Burlò, who designed the set, which is being built by Norman iċ-Ċiċċo Hill, known for his carnival floats, and lights designer Andrew Zammit. These three are working on what is said to be the largest stage ever built at Pjazza Teatru Rjal.
Producer and director Sean Buhagiar has managed to bring together some of the best teams of people hailing from all cultural spheres for the show. The choreographer is university professor Jo Butterworth, while Conrad Attard, renowned for his work at Għaxaq Carnival, designed the masks. Architect Adrian Mamo, who has been involved in theatre for the past 30 years, designed more than 200 costumes.
It is said to be the largest stage ever built at Pjazza Teatru Rjal
In addition to this is the cast, which includes popular actor Davide Tucci, international comedian Chris Dingli, the magical voice of Doreen Galea, Josef Camilleri from Xarulù, Justin Galea from KażinSka, singer Ozzy Lino and actress Mariele Zammit. Other experienced actors who form part of the show include Michael Mangion, Antonella Axisa, Marilù Vella, Peter Busuttil, Manwel Cassar and Manuel Cutajar. Established dancers such as Dorian Mallia and Felix Busuttil will also form part of the spectacle.
Commissioned by the Valletta 2018 Foundation, Balzunetta Towers tackles one of Malta’s most flagrant secrets – Balzunetta – also known as Strait Street’s naughty sister in Floriana. Ironically, Balzunetta was located in the environs of the Seminary, the Police Headquarters and the Armed Forces headquarters.
Pjazza Teatru Rjal will undergo a nostalgic transformation into a spectacular cabaret stage, which will feature a live orchestra with top musicians, directed by the composer, who is one of the top local Maltese talents – Dominic Galea.
Also on sale are Gold Tickets, which entitle audience members to sit at a table and enjoy food and wine, and also receive an original album.
It all looks set to be an unforgettable spectacular experience and summer evening.
The story, satire and comedy were written by author and former prime minister Alfred Sant, while the songs are by poet Albert Marshall. The producer and director is popular theatre director Sean Buhagiar, who will ensure the story of Balzunetta will remain ingrained in the memory of the audiences.
Balzunetta Towers takes place between Tuesday and next Sunday at Pjazza Teatru Rjal, Valletta. Tickets are available online, by calling on 2122 3216, or from St James Cavalier, Valletta.
www.balzunettatowers.com