Pawlu Borg Bonaci
A full-time caterer by profession, for the last nine years Pawlu Borg Bonaci is perhaps best known as the frontman of the popular local band Fakawi. He is a singer, he is funny and he can play the guitar. He first showed an interest in music when his sister started tickling the ivories but says he hated Beethovan ‘because he is so ugly.’
Pawlu also belonged to a kind of prayer group which started him playing the guitar and singing. Eventually his father bought him an electric guitar to stop him abusing a broom to create the sounds he wanted. Pawlu also belonged to a choir and served as an altar boy at St John’s Co Cathedral. He is very proud of this experience and looks upon it with nostalgia.
When he was at school, the teachers considered him intelligent but disinclined to study. He went into catering with his family. But catering apart, he is in love with music and says music instills in him a sense of relief. Music also means more gigs, more crowds, more fun. If he had a time machine where would he go? The
70’s disco era with everyone wearing big bell-bottoms, shiny clothing, mirror balls, straight lines, and boogie baby he says, looking nostalgic. If he could star in a movie he would like it to be directed by Tinto Brass who is noted especially for his work in the erotic genre.
Fakawi has been described as one of Malta’s most entertaining bands. They’ve also well known for Smart Song, which is a send-up of all the buzz surrounding the launch of Malta’s Smart City.
Apart from a stream of concerts and performances with Fakawi, Pawlu also forms part of the resident band at the annual satire festival Bla Kondixin. This year it is taking place at the University Theatre on 24, 25, 26 and 31 October and on 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9 November at 7.30pm. Extra performances will also be held on t 2 and 9 November at 3pm.
How old are you? Star sign and date of birth?
31 … 28 April 1977. As to my star sign decide for yourself.
What would you like to be doing in 10 years’ time?
Living La Vida.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Being surrounded by people I love… with plenty of good food, good music and no income tax and electricity bills.
What is your favourite occupation?
Entertaining … music, cooking… putting a smile on people’s faces
Significant other?
YES.
What is your greatest fear?
Losing someone close … and getting old.
What is it that you most value in your friends?
I think the fact that I always found them there to help me and to be with me when I needed them the most....( u jiehdu pacenzja bijja....)
How would you like to die?
In style – in capital letters.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Where shall I start … ? Next question place!
What is your greatest regret?
Meeting Michael Fenech the director, producer, writer, bla bla of Bla Kondixin.
What is your most treasured possession?
I have the Holy Grail... I’ll put it on auction very soon on e-bay.
Which talent would you most like to have apart from the ones you already have?
Being able to wrap up Christmas and birthday presents... I’m a disaster at it.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Being left alone, with no one to take care of you, none to love and to talk to and the only letters you receive are bills and magazines selling you cheap TVs, mobiles, tools and furniture ... all made in China.
Where would you like to live?
Jamaica or Cuba, not on windy days though!
What is your most marked characteristic?
My smile.
Who are your heroes/heroines in real life?
My Mum and Dad, and people who everyday give their life to help and save others. And Michael Fenech.
What is it that you most dislike?
Fish, talking about teeth and operations at table. Norman Lowell.
What is your motto?
I have different mottos which I use for different occasions. Right now ... my motto is …Sorry. I’m late for rehearsals and Michael Fenech is going to kill me…!