This World Cup, Teatru Malta has thought of an innovative way of plunging itself into the football frenzy as it presents an innovative hybrid of two popular culture forms –  football and theatre.

Between Friday and June 24, following the MFA’s screening of the 8pm live matches, there will be a one-hour performance of Brad Birch’s latest play Game.

Written by an award-winning English playwright and directed by top Italian director Lisa Ferlazzo Natoli, Game is a raw narrative that tells the story of a beloved local football club and the family that runs it. The manager, the most respected man at the club, has just died leaving a void that very few are able to fill.

His son, Chris, played by actor Malcolm Galea, is left to make sense of the financial mess left by his father. Club owner Peter, portrayed by Stephen Oliver, wants Chris to step into his father’s shoes and manage the club. But is it all worth it? As the story unfolds, it’s very clear that there’s more to this narrative than meets the eye. Game is about family, football, secrets and skeletons in the dressing rooms. More importantly, it is a story about dreams, broken promises, compromise and corruption on the pitch and off it.

Other cast members include Davide Tucci, Erica Muscat and Julia Camilleri.

Held collaboration with Unifaun Theatre Productions, the MFA and the British Council, the production will mark the very first time that a play is staged at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali.

Game will run from June 15 till 24 at the Trophies Lounge at the National Stadium, Ta’ Qali, at 10pm. For more information visit www.teatrumalta.org.mt.