An illusionist from Russia; a family of clowns and a Charlie Chaplin impersonator and plate spinner from Bulgaria; a juggler from the Czech Republic; The Maltese Motion acrobats; Brian Role the illusionist; dancers, comedians and presenters… The spirit of the vaudeville – or, as it’s become known through the years, the variety show – is certainly going to come alive in The Little Big Show.
“The word ‘vaudeville’ might be old and out of fashion, but the variety show has never gone out of style,” says Patrick Vella, who, on top of producing the show, is also taking part. “We watch such shows in circuses and on TV but, with this show, we wanted to give the performers the full spotlight and audiences the chance to experience a show that brings together interactivity, surprises, musicality, adventure and, above all, laughter!”
Organised and produced by the same people who every year bring Dar il-Waħx to life, The Little Big Show is a family affair that aims to get people in the Christmas spirit before the mania hits. Being held daily between December 7 and 9, the show promises some rather magical stuff, including a bubble show that will, quite literally, engulf people and a journey through the world using umbrellas.
“A true illusionist is not just a person who has a bunch of tricks up their sleeve; they’re a person who can act, direct and produce emotions,” Ilya, the illusionist behind the performance who has over five years’ experience under his belt, tells me. “In fact, my act is not just a set of tricks; it’s a true story. A story about a traveller that turns the audience into travellers… All through the humble umbrella, which we often ignore until it rains.”
Following in their own footsteps of adding the latest technology to their shows, Curtainraiser will also be doing so for The Little Big Show, with special effects, intelligent lighting and state-of-the-art sound equipment being brought in specifically for the show.
“It’s all in the name,” Patrick continues. “It’s ‘little’ because it’s on a small scale and it’s not exceedingly long [around two hours including the break], but it’s ‘big’ when it comes to the international acts and the wowing effects!”
Asking Patrick whether The Little Big Show will be using any animals, he assures me that ‘the only animals [they’ll] be using are [themselves]’, but promises a 1920s vaudeville show ‘full of colour, magic and fun’.
“Being young or young at heart – it doesn’t really matter – is the only thing you need to enjoy this show!” he concludes.
The Little Big Show – A Vaudeville Extravaganza takes place at The City Theatre in Valletta on December 7 and 8 at 7.30pm, and on December 9 at 3pm and 6pm.
www.ticketor.com/Curtainraiser