Feasibility of establishing a ballet school at Valletta

Abstract

The Manoel Theatre is an 18th century theatre in the classic horse-shoe auditorium style, built in 1732, and is one of the oldest theatres in Europe. It was substantially restored when the Government took over the premises in 1957, and was officially re-opened in I960, since when a management committee under the vigorous chairmanship of Mr Agius Ferrante has run the premises as an active theatre. Adjacent buildings have been acquired which have been restored and developed to provide a handsome foyer and bar to the Theatre, and premises for a small arts library, a school of music with an attractive library for scores, and a drama school. These adjuncts to the theatre complex are a flourishing source of cultural education, giving open access to all, and providing an outlet and a source for fostering and developing talent throughout Malta. It is in this light that the Management Committee has set about adding a ballet school to their list of considerable achievements. The Committee are concerned that the finest possible facilities be made available within the context of the building recently acquired, known as 88 Old Mint Street, which consists of four floors (see Plans) and which is a near contemporary of the Manoel Theatre. As much of the interior of the building as possible is to be retained in its historic condition, while the exterior is to be restored to the original state when funds permit.