As part of its newly-launched annual programme, Teatru Malta, Malta’s national theatre company, commissioned a children’s festival, baptising it Trikki Trakki Youth Theatre Festival. The festival, held on May 12 at The Malta Visual And Performing Arts School (MVPA) in Ħamrun, was directed by actress and TV personality Antonella Axisa.
Three leading theatre directors (Josette Ciappara, Christopher Gatt and Isabelle Gatt) worked with the students over a three month period through a series of workshops towards the creation of three separate and diverse theatrical pieces, which were played out to the public in different parts of the MVPA school itself on Saturday.
The shows were devised with the creative input of the students under the guidance and vision of the three directors, who all commented that the children’s performances and creativity exceeded their initial expectations.
Teatru Malta’s Artistic Director Sean Buhagiar explained that the festival was crafted so that the students could experience working with top local directors, whilst going through the entire process of creating a theatrical production from scratch, including the creation of sets, audiovisual material, lights, sound, props and costume designs.
The MVPA school, inaugurated by Prime Minister Joseph Muscat last March, promises to be a leading educational facility for young students aspiring to follow a career in various arts sectors, and this made it the perfect establishment for collaboration with Teatru Malta.
Teatru Malta believes that the festival served as a unique opportunity for students to learn hands-on about all the aspects involved in producing a theatrical piece, and hopes that such experiences will inspire children to explore their theatrical talents in the future.
Following the performances a panel of leading actors (Ray Calleja, Frida Cauchi and Davide Tucci) addressed the audience and the young performers, thanking them for their creative work and unique shows. Teatru Malta would like to thank all involved for their hard work, especially the school administration, teachers and supporting staff who helped make Trikki Trakki a success. It is hoped that this festival will become a yearly event in the future.
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