How does a staunch theatrical modernist fit into the traditions of a 100-year-old club? Jo Caruana finds out, as she chats to Adrian Buckle, the MADC’s new artistic director.
A few eyebrows were raised when it was announced that Adrian Buckle would be taking on the role of the Malta Amateur Dramatic Club’s (MADC) artistic director.
As the founder of Unifaun, one of the country’s most avant-garde theatre companies, he may not have seemed the obvious person to take over the position from Tony Cassar Darien.
After all, he is the man who produced controversial local shows Blasted, Equus and Some Explicit Polaroids, and tried to produce Anthony Neilson’s Stitching (which, at present, remains banned).
As a result, many theatre stalwarts spoke in hushed tones as they wondered how Buckle’s experimental approach to theatre would blend with the MADC’s 100-year long traditions.
Well, so far, it seems to be blending just fine.
“If there’s any statement to be made by this, it is that I intend to help the MADC to produce more quality plays,” he says adamantly.
“I know the club has its own traditions – I respect them and they won’t be forgotten. But at the same time I want to open the MADC up to new audiences.
“I know my limits, and I probably won’t be suggesting plays like Blasted because I know that would be too extreme. But I see no harm in stretching the club’s boundaries a little and encouraging it to keep on growing.”
Nevertheless, his first play as artistic director – Osama the Hero – may seem a tad controversial to some.
“Yes, there is a lot of strong language and violence in it,” says Buckle, who has been in the role since December.
“But I don’ think it will be shocking. On the contrary, I think it will keep audiences interested from start to finish.”
Directed by Erin Stewart Tanti and written by Dennis Kelly, the play talks about the effects of terrorism. It demonstrates what terrorism does to its victims, and shows how innocent victims can end up becoming terrorists themselves.
Additionally, it delves into the irresponsibility of the West and the media in their handling of terrorist attacks.
“The way I see it, they tried to create a new enemy and that had its repercussions,” says Buckle.
“Instead of defeating terror, they bred hate.
“The play is very dark of course, and we are working with Italian designer Aldo Moretti to ensure that it is reflected in the set, but I think it has a lot to say and a point to make. Plus, in light of recent developments, I think it is extremely topical and will bring a lot to the MADC’s season.”
Speaking of seasons, it seems Buckle’s biggest challenge will be coming up with a balanced one for the club every year – one that reflects both the MADC’s past and present.
That said, he has already planned the rest of this season’s productions and it seems there is plenty on offer to appease both the conservatives and those after something more contemporary.
The club will be producing a classic by George Bernard Shaw, Mrs Warren’s Profession, at the Manoel Theatre in April. And it will complete the season in July with a production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, directed by American Dave Barton, who previously worked with Mr Buckle on Unifaun’s play Blasted.
And, finally, what of Unifaun, the company Mr Buckle lovingly crafted from the ground up?
“Of course a part of me is very sad about my decision to take a break from Unifaun,” he explains.
“But it wasn’t always an easy ride. I was running the company on my own and producing three productions a year, so it was absolutely exhausting for both my family and I. It seemed like the best decision for all of us, for now at least.
“I actually have a long history with the MADC, and began my directing career with the club when I took part in the One Acts Play Festival a number of times. I have a lot of respect for it and believe it has given a lot to Maltese theatre.
“Thus, when I was approached to be artistic director, I felt it was the perfect move – it would allow me more time with my family and still give me the opportunity to create great theatre.
“And that’s exactly what the committee and I have planned for the MADC – fantastic plays and thrilling theatrical events that will breathe new life into the club.”
Osama the Hero will be performed at St James Cavalier, Valletta, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and on the weekends of February 18 and 25. Contact boxoffice@sjcav.org for tickets and further information. Visit www.madc.biz for details on the rest of the MADC’s season.