Details of Teatru Manoel’s 2025-2026 season have been announced, featuring more than 50 productions that promise a wide range of cultural experiences. The line-up includes Verdi’s opera Falstaff, the musical Amélie, and Maltese-language works such as the Francis Ebejer Prize-winning play Sofie.
The programme also features original productions by TOI TOI, including an adaptation of George Orwell’s classic novel 1984 and the concert Movie Magic, as well as the traditional Christmas pantomime.
Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Owen Bonnici said Teatru Manoel remains a central hub of Malta’s cultural life. “This season, with over 50 productions, demonstrates the strength of our local talent and the growing collaboration with international artists,” he said. Bonnici added that the programme not only offers audiences enjoyable experiences but also contributes to education, critical thinking, and the value of creativity at a professional level. He praised the efforts of the entire Manoel Theatre team and highlighted the work of the newly formed De Valette Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Mro Carmine Lauri, which will make its debut this season.
Artistic Director Adrian Mamo said the theatre’s new season serves as a platform for many artistic entities, including the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, ŻfinMalta, TeatruMalta, and private companies such as Masquerade Theatre Company and Moveo Dance Company. It also involves collaborations with festivals such as the Valletta Baroque Festival, Malta Spring Festival, and the International Arts Festival, while welcoming artists from Italy, France, Greece and beyond.
TOI TOI Manager Kate Fenech Field noted that this year marks the fifteenth season of TOI TOI, which will celebrate with events that combine storytelling through puppetry, music and movement. “We have created educational productions as an investment in theatre, with a long-term vision based on serious research. They are entertaining but also challenging,” she said. TOI TOI’s programme will range from adventures with penguins in its Baby Series to stand-up comedy in its NextGen project.
Chief Executive of Teatru Manoel Edward Zammit thanked the theatre’s team, pointing out that behind every curtain raised lies the hard work of artists, programmers, technicians, seamstresses, carpenters, backstage staff, and the marketing, business development, operations, finance, and administration departments. “Their passion, talent and determination are the foundation of this theatre’s work,” he said.
Chairman Dr Michael Grech added that the upcoming season will be a vibrant one, with operas, concerts, musicals, and dramas, including Maltese-language productions. He said this reflects Teatru Manoel’s commitment to keeping the Maltese language alive and central to the island’s cultural life.
The varied programme, organisers said, is designed to appeal to all audiences, offering the very best across multiple genres.