Emerging artists from the Opera Nova Project will take centre stage at the Manoel Theatre, Valletta, this month in a new production of Mozart’s beloved opera The Magic Flute.
Taking place on September 25 and 26, the performances will showcase the talent of 26 local singers and an international guest artist. Together, they will take on principal roles, offering a rare platform for Malta’s rising opera talent to step into the spotlight on the Manoel’s main stage.
In line with Opera Nova Project’s mission to nurture emerging talent, the production has partnered with the internationally renowned Fames Institute in Macedonia to create a unique ensemble of 25 talented young European musicians and nine emerging Maltese players, all under the direction of conductor Philip Walsh.
Directed by Denise Mulholland, with musical direction by Gillian Zammit, audiences can expect an imaginative interpretation of The Magic Flute, designed to engage both seasoned opera lovers and newcomers alike.
“We are proud to showcase exceptional local talent alongside an orchestra that embodies true European collaboration,” Mulholland, co-founder with Zammit of Opera Nova Project, said.
“This will be a joyful, wholly accessible production, designed to resonate with audiences of all ages. For the young singers involved, this is a career-defining opportunity, offering the chance to work alongside seasoned professionals, gain exposure and hone their craft in a high-calibre opera.”
She added that although some of their singers have performed in choruses, one of the biggest challenges is getting the opportunity to “advance from ensemble to principal”.
“As per the ethos of Opera Nova Project, we seek to provide these opportunities for our emerging artists, and with The Magic Flute we do exactly that – allow them to emerge as principals.”
Opera Nova Project is also holding a forum at the Manoel on September 17 at 4pm. Topics under discussion will include how to attract a younger generation of theatregoers to opera. The forum will feature panel members from all the major local cultural entities – the Manoel Theatre, Festivals Malta, the Archbishop’s Delegate for Culture, and the Astra and Aurora theatres in Gozo – as well as various other leading figures in the operatic world and young members of the public who have never been to an opera. The public is also invited to attend.
“We want to actively target younger audiences, a demographic that often feels disconnected from opera and classical music,” Mulholland said.
“With the forum we hope to ignite curiosity, break down perceived barriers, and build future audiences not only around The Magic Flute, but also future operatic events.”
Supported by Arts Council Malta, Festivals Malta, and APS Bank, The Magic Flute will be performed on September 25 and 26 at 7.30pm. The production will be sung in German with English surtitles and spoken dialogue will be in English. Tickets are available from bookings.mt@teatrumanoel.mt.
For more information about the Opera Nova Project, visit www.operanovaproject.com, and for information about the Opera Forum on September 17, e-mail info@operanovaproject.com.
