Good old music returns to Valletta square

Café Premier, a landmark of post-war entertainment in Valletta, is set to make a comeback with live, open-air, evening entertainment that forms part of general efforts to revive the capital city at night.

The café and restaurant will put on entertainment every Wednesday evening, starting next week, with the participation of George Curmi il-Pusé and his band.

Tourism and Culture Minister Francis Zammit Dimech officially launched the activity yesterday evening. The programme will run every Wednesday until autumn between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m., weather permitting.

The event is supported by the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and the Valletta local council.

Café Premier used to host famous bands as patrons sat around tables on Pjazza Regina. Entertainment peaked in the square in the 1960s and 1970s with well-known bands led by Oscar Lucas, Jimmy Dowling, Paul Arnaud, Vinny Vella, Val Valente, the Curmi Family and many more, together with budding international jazz and pop singers.

The popularity of the venue eventually died down as happened with other places that once livened up the city after dusk.

On this occasion, Café Premier will offer a special set menu at good value. Patrons will be able to savour Maltese nougat and tourists can browse for souvenirs from a special stand at Pjazza Regina. Afterwards tourists can enjoy a walk up to the Upper Barrakka Gardens which will remain open till late. Coaches will be allowed to park at Castille Place.

Further information about the activity may be obtained from Café Premier on telephone 2123 7362. One may also log on to www.maltaculture.com for current cultural activities in Malta.