Falstaff, Giuseppe Verdi’s comic opera, considered one of the greatest masterpieces of the operatic genre, is being staged at the Manoel Theatre in collaboration with the Malta National Opera, between February 22 and March 1.
The libretto, written in Italian by Arrigo Boito, is inspired by scenes from William Shakespeare’s plays The Merry Wives of Windsor and Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2.
The opera was first performed on February 9, 1893, at La Scala theatre in Milan. It tells the story of the knight Sir John Falstaff and his attempts to win the affection of two married women to gain access to their husbands’ wealth.
Falstaff is the last work written by Verdi, who throughout his extraordinary career composed 26 operas. It is also his second comedy and his third operatic work inspired by Shakespeare, following Macbeth and Otello.
This new production offers a fresh and visually dynamic interpretation, transporting the action from Windsor to a 1960s television studio, under the direction of Barbara Diana and the musical direction of Federico Tibone. An international cast, including baritone Kiril Manolov in the title role and internationally renowned Maltese tenor Nico Darmanin, is performing.
During a press conference, Manoel Theatre chair Michael Grech said that Falstaff “honours Verdi’s genius while offering a contemporary and accessible experience for today’s audiences”.
“As chairman, I am proud that we continue to bring people together through the arts and ensure that opera remains a living and vital part of Malta’s cultural heart.”
Death anniversary
Italian Ambassador Valentina Setta said that the presentation of Falstaff at the Manoel “holds profound symbolic value”.
“This opera represents the brilliant conclusion of Giuseppe Verdi’s career and, at the same time, a celebration of humanity, intelligence and humour,” she said.
She noted that this year also marks the 125th anniversary of Verdi’s death, offering an opportunity to reflect on his enduring influence on Italian and European culture.
“The collaboration between Italy and Malta in this production is a clear example of how culture can serve as a bridge for dialogue and mutual understanding. I am confident that this production will offer audiences a musical and artistic experience truly worthy of Verdi’s legacy,” she added.
Shakespeare trilogy
The Manoel’s artistic director Adrian Mamo recalled that this is the second time Falstaff is being staged at the Manoel, following the 2007 production.
He also announced that the production opens a new chapter of collaboration between the Manoel and the Malta National Opera – a trilogy of operas based on works by Shakespeare.
“Falstaff today will be followed by Roméo et Juliette by Charles Gounod and A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Benjamin Britten in the coming years,” he said.
“We believe these productions not only celebrate the classical heritage but also continue to make it relevant and vibrant for today’s audiences.”
The production of Falstaff, which forms part of the Manoel’s 2025/2026 artistic programme, is supported by Bank of Valletta.
For more information and tickets, visit teatrumanoel.mt.
