Thirteen years after its publication, Ivan De Battista’s novel L-Aħħar 13 is being adapted for the stage at Spazju Kreattiv, in a production led by his own family.
The play, which premiered on Friday, follows a nameless protagonist known simply as ‘Hu’ (he), as he recounts the tragic events of his life over the course of 13 days.
First published in 2013 by Merlin Publishers, the novel explores themes of love, loss, abuse and heartbreak. It tells the tale of a man born under a “dark cloud” and how his existence is determined by the ill-choices of those around him.
The stage adaptation has long been in the making. De Battista and his wife, Simone, had always hoped to bring the story to the theatre. However, it was their son Ryan who ultimately set the project in motion.
The 24-year-old actor and radio host said the idea took shape after he challenged himself to read the book, for the first time, in one day, which he did late last year.
“By the second chapter, I was already immersed in the story and the protagonist’s hardship,” he said. “That is when I started thinking about how we could retell this story for the stage.”
Asked to describe the production in a few words, Ryan said it is an “emotional rollercoaster”.
He explains how, despite brief moments of hope, the protagonist’s existence is shaped by moments of domestic violence and physical and emotional abuse from those whom he is meant to find love and support in. As the drama unfolds, Ryan’s character guides the audience through these hardships and suffering, yet his journey is marked by resilience.
Key figures from his life enter and exit in different scenes throughout the play, each having left their mark on him in one way or another. The protagonist is also haunted by voices, echoing memories from his dark past.
The production eventually became a family collaboration. Ryan took on the lead role, while his father adapted the script. His mother, Simone, is the play’s producer and plays ‘Omm’, the protagonist’s mother.
The development of the theatrical production did not come without its own difficulties for the De Battistas.
Simone said balancing her dual role proved challenging.
“At the beginning, it was difficult. At times, I held back from suggesting changes to a particular scene or part in the script, because I was speaking not just to the director, but also to my father”
“I had to show vulnerability on stage, while also being critical of our work,” she said, while also pushing aside her mother’s instincts towards Ryan, and her concerns that the emotions of the main character would get to her son.
Ryan described similar struggles, noting that working with his parents required a shift in mindset.
“At the beginning, it was difficult. At times, I held back from suggesting changes to a particular scene or part in the script, because I was speaking not just to the director, but also to my father,” he said.
Yet, as the rehearsals went on, the family managed to strike a balance between emotions and professional creativity.
For De Battista, a key concern was whether his son could portray a character originally written for an older man.
“I asked Ryan if he truly understood the character’s pain and tribulations,” he said. “Through rehearsals, he showed that he takes the role very seriously and has put his heart and soul into the production.”
He added that the story remains relevant today, more than a decade after its publication.
“The themes are universal. Many in the audience will recognise elements of the pain explored in the story,” he said, adding that the production also aims to raise awareness about sensitive issues often left unspoken.
The cast also includes Benjamin Abela, Trizianne Vella, Kelly Peplow, Anna Bassily, Janine Caruana, Fabio Mifsud and Jesmond Kris Bugeja.
Set design is by Maria Rosa Thornhill, with sound design by Brad Cardona and lighting by Sarah Ng Xi Yan.
The performance includes references to suicide, child and animal abuse, mental illness and drug use. It is recommended for audiences aged 15 and over.
L-Aħħar 13 will be staged today, and on March 26, 28 and 29 at Spazju Kreattiv, Valletta. Tickets are available at spazjukreattiv.org.