One of the oldest functioning theatres in the world lies on Old Theatre Street, Valletta, and is currently undergoing preservation and improvement restoration works. Funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the rehabilitation project will cost €1.8 million.

The alterations include elements such as the installation of new parterre boxes, new carpet in the galleries and parterre boxes, and new parquet in the plateau. To improve accessibility, the platforms in the boxes were removed. The works also aim to bring culture closer to the people by allowing for the use of an innovative acclimatisation and ventilation system (which has been implemented in time for this season), an induction loop system for the hearing impaired, further improvements to the orchestra pit, and new chairs, amongst various other aspects.

Malta’s national theatre, Manoel Theatre (Teatru Manoel) has undergone a number of changes, both to its architecture and internal décor throughout the years. Built in 1731 by order of Grandmaster Anton Manoel de Vilhena, the theatre has experienced a rich and chequered history over 287 years.

Manoel Theatre has always been and is still one of the major contributors to the local cultural scene, and is an exponent of high quality productions.

Don't miss this month:

This is a special month for the Manoel Theatre, as the Teatru Manoel BOV Opera Week takes place from March 5th-11th.

This year's week opens with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Don Giovanni. Following the 2017 production of Le Nozze di Figaro, this is the second of the three Mozart/Da Ponte operas which the Manoel is presenting in a row.

Directed by Jack Furness, with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Philip Walsh, this is a new and daring production of the iconic masterpiece. The Manoel Theatre frames this definitive portrait of a young libertine whose racy exploits scandalise all who cross his path – until he meets one who cannot be swayed by his charms.

Ticket details here.