The Malta Fairs and Convention Centre in Ta’ Qali is a cavernous, almost industrial-like space. That is, without the people, the chairs, the music or the blinding lights.
Walking into this mega-tent on Tuesday evening was an experience to savour. The only factor disrupting the enveloping silence was Felix Busuttil’s distinct and authoritative voice bouncing off the walls.
The director and founder of the Yada Dance Company, Mr Busuttil has, over the past few days, been thoroughly engaged in polishing up the biggest act Yada has organised to date.
After celebrating their 25th anniversary with a huge show at the Mediterranean Conference Centre last year, Yada has decided to pay tribute to none other than The King of Pop.
Running into the early hours of the morning, the rehearsals for this weekend’s show titled Michael Jackson, Forever, were in full swing a couple of days ago: the atmosphere palpably abuzz with anticipation for tonight’s premiere.
With over 400 dancers, plus some other 200 performers – Bulgarian and Italian gymnasts, a gospel choir and guest artistes – forming part of this ambitious project, the end result is set to be a true spectacle.
Ahead of opening night, however, MFCC became a makeshift dance studio, a multi-purpose changing room and a hang-out spot for those awaiting their turn on stage and those waiting for their loved ones to get off it.
Dancers stretched and warmed up in small groups; the mothers of the very many children camped out, equipped with thermos flasks and collapsible chairs; Mr Busuttil’s pet dogs – Coco, Sushi and Spartacus – watched the action, undeniably eager for their master’s undivided attention; costume designers Charles and Ron handed out fresh from the sewing-machine sparkly sequined jackets; while Oscar nominee and set-design consultant Peter Howitt observed all the goings on with a knowing twinkle in his eye.
Looking back in time at Yada’s very first performance – the 1985 show Guardian Of The Light – one will see how very far this company has come since its inception in 1984. In 26 years, Yada has grown beyond expectations and has become renowned for its all-embracing performances which audiences flock to en masse.
Stepping out of the MFCC, assorted psychedelic flickering lights dotted the otherwise austere space, highlighting a group of some 40 or 50 young dancers who rehearse their number of the Jackson Five’s ABC.
Yet, the true glitz and glam is strictly reserved for tonight, when the adrenaline will be rocketing, the false eyelashes would have been attached, the dancing shoes strapped on and the silver gloves, signature gangster hats and military jackets would have been donned by one and all.
To further enhance the dance show, authentic Michael Jackson memorabilia are being displayed at the MFCC, courtesy of Hard Rock Café.