Christmas pantomime for experiment

Teatru Rjal dramatic company is busy preparing for another two productions next month to mark the 12th anniversary of its foundation.

The first production centres on Charles Dickens' character Scrooge in 'A Christmas Carol' to be presented daily from December 5 to 8, and the second the Christmas pantomime Il-Milied ta' Charlie Chaplin on December 21, 26, 27, 28 and 31 and from January 2 to 4.

Both productions are being staged at the Catholic Institute in Floriana.

A cast of 60, presently rehearsing for Scrooge, which is produced by Pawlu Testa and directed by Pawlu Micallef, includes Augusto Cardinale, Debbie Scerri, Lawrence Gray, Patrick Vella, and Ina Robinich among others. Choreography is by Michelle Zerafa.

Mr Testa said that as one noted from the date of one of the presentations of the pantomime, December 31, this coincided with New Year's Eve celebrations.

In fact, he added, this would be a special performance which is being presented as an experiment.

The performance, which starts at 7.45 p.m. will have a rather long interval during which a reception will be held to welcome the new year. The second act will continue at five minutes past midnight, he said.

Mr Testa said that only 450 persons can be accepted for the performance in view of the space available for the reception.

Il-Milied ta' Charlie Chaplin is written and directed by Hector Bruno, who is also one of the main actors in the pantomime.

Mr Bruno will interpret eight women characters.

The 70 strong cast also includes Ludvic Galea, Renato Dimech, Patrick Galea, Julie Zahra among many others.

Music for the pantomime will be played live.

Tickets for all the performances can be bought from Pawlu Testa Travel, 133, Guardamangia Hill, Guardamangia (tel. 2122 3340) and from the Catholic Institute booking office.