On 28 October 2024, the Department of English hosted a panel discussion on Shakespeare in Malta, in collaboration with the Department of Theatre Studies. This particular instalment in the Department’s ‘English Seminar’ research series was held at the Teatru Salesjan, Sliema, a fittingly theatrical venue for the talk.
Panellists Philip Leone-Ganado, Pia Zammit, Joe Friggieri and Marco Galea discussed the past and living legacy of Shakespeare in performance in Malta, and what Shakespeare continues to mean to Maltese audiences. Theatre critic and former actor Paul Xuereb provided additional insights in the course of the discussion. The speakers were introduced by James Corby and the talk was chaired and moderated by Krista Bonello Rutter Giappone. A lively Q&A session with the audience followed the panel discussion.
Topics discussed in the course of the evening ranged from the historical to the contemporary. These included: the relationship between text and theatrical production, changing attitudes towards Shakespeare, Shakespeare’s reception in Malta’s post-colonial landscape, Shakespeare in education, Shakespeare’s language, Shakespeare in translation, and how to render Shakespeare accessible to wider audiences. Anecdotes and memories were shared by participants and audience members, enriching the event with unique personal perspectives. The event also paid tribute to Polly March, in view of her deep-seated commitment to Shakespeare and Maltese theatre.
‘Shakespeare in Malta’ was very well-received by the audience. It was well-attended, and the audience included theatre practitioners, academics, students and interested members of the public.
Particular thanks go to Ivan Callus, Marco Galea, and James Corby, who supported the event throughout its organisation. Thanks is also due to the School of Performing Arts Digital Archive and Dr Paul Xuereb, for kindly permitting us to show images from their collections during the event.
