Cabaret in London puts Maltese performers’ stories centre stage

Maltese performers based in London are set to take to the stage in an original cabaret that explores their experiences of building a career abroad while holding on to their identity.

The cabaret, XOW, tells the story of artists who leave Malta to pursue opportunities in one of the world’s leading entertainment capitals. Through music and performance, it reflects on the pressures faced by performers who are often expected to fit into roles that do not reflect their actual background.

The production will be held on May 14 at The Other Palace, a theatre located just off London’s West End.

“The theatre industry doesn't know where to place us, Maltese actors,” said one of the producers of XOW, Michela Agius.

She explained that while there is increasing space for diversity in the industry, Maltese performers still face a lack of awareness about their identity and background.

The "Xow" poster for the evening of musical theatre featuring Maltese performers in London.

According to Agius, performers are frequently expected to adapt to other cultures rather than present their own. She said this creates uncertainty about where Maltese artists fit within the industry.

“Casting often wants someone authentic to the culture of the role, but no one is saying our stories, so where do Maltese performers stand?”

Agius said she first noticed this challenge during her training, when many people were unfamiliar with Malta and surprised that English was her first language.

Despite her formal training and English being her first language, she said she was often underestimated or asked to adjust her appearance.

“I have been in so many rooms where I was told to change my accent or how I look. But I strongly believe, as a performer and in general really, the worst thing you can do is get rid of your identity.”

The cabaret is being produced by Agius, Miriana Pavia and Matthew Cassar. It will feature songs from well-known musicals, as well as original compositions and Maltese-language pieces.

Seven Maltese performers will take part in the production: Yandrick Agius, Laura Buhagiar, Hollie Cassar, Francesca Fenech, Paolo Micallef, Miriana Pavia, and Agius. The group is also supported by Janetha Stubbs, while the cabaret's dramaturg is Nicky Gambin.

Agius said the performers hope to raise awareness about the Maltese community in London through the production.

“To our knowledge, this is the first cabaret of its kind to spotlight Maltese musical theatre talent in London, and we are very proud to be doing it ourselves.”

Tickets for XOW are available from The Other Palace website.