Curtain rises on Manoel Theatre restoration

The Manoel Theatre is to be restored to its former glory, Arts Minister Jesmond Mugliett announced yesterday. It will be the first extensive restoration of the venerable theatre in half a century.

Mr Mugliett said the project would prove that new synergies between the government and private entities could be exploited to achieve the same aim.

The theatre was commissioned in 1731 by Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena, who had identified the need for a building to serve the "honest recreation of the people". It was built in 10 months and saw its first curtain call on January 9, 1732.

The first object of restoration will be the paintings on the boxes, to be sponsored by Malta International Airport, the Valletta Rehabilitation Project, Din l-Art Helwa and Computime.

The VRP has appointed restorer Sante Guido to oversee the project.

Mr Mugliett said Lm150,000 had been allocated for capital expenses on the theatre this year.

"We will not only be taking care of the aesthetics of the building but also of other areas such as backstage, the wardrobe and the service lift. The façade also needs some urgent attention," he said.

Manoel Theatre acting chairman Peter Fenech said the need to refurbish the theatre had long been felt. "We believe we have brought together the right mix of partnership and expertise on this project," he said.

He apologised to the public for any inconvenience that will be caused but said a more complete restoration of the theatre would have forced its closure for a three or four year period.