How have you seen Malta in terms of art and culture in the past, up until today? Malta is a country full of cultural life. We believe that the work that will be carried out during this tenure is a continuation of previous work but with a twist: creative economy. Throughout the past 10 months, I have had meetings with various ministers from other countries in the European Union and outside the European Union, and we all agree that art and culture is an industry in itself, an industry that can create jobs. Currently, art and culture contribute to a small percentage of GDP but we believe this can grow. We are committed to expanding this sector in a sustainable way.   In terms of culture, how do you see Valletta, and Malta, in the future beyond 2018? The government is committed to preserving Valletta’s glorious and unique architecture and its vibrant life. We are concentrating on regenerating our capital in the run-up to 2018, when Valletta will be the European Capital of Culture, but we want these efforts to continue for many years to come. Achievements will come through dialogue, cooperation and collaboration involving many cultural entities, local artists, the government and the private sector. Valletta will see more investment, not only in popular cultural celebrations and other niche cultural events but also with important capital projects. These will boost the creative economy, and create more jobs.   You recently attended a contemporary music event at the Orpheum Theatre. Are there plans for this theatre to be renovated and used as a permanent theatre? The definition of culture is very broad indeed. In this respect, my ministry is not merely concerned with public entities but even private ones. Across Malta and Gozo we have numerous theatres and art spaces, which definitely deserve the attention and interest of the government. A particular interesting and historical edifice is the Orpheum Theatre, which is crying to be regenerated. In fact, it is no secret that I have been approached to do something about it. I plan to create a foundation to run this theatre and be in a position to apply for EU Funds.   Can you discuss the current situation for the relocation of the Fine Arts Museum, creation of a modern and/or contemporary art museum?  ‘Muza’ is the name of a new concept that will bring back the Museum of Fine Arts to the Auberge d’Italie. To set up this concept, we have issued an expression of interest for people to come up with ideas. The selection process will start immediately in order to have this very important and innovative museum ready by 2018. Meanwhile, till then, I have publicly committed myself to set up a contemporary art museum that will attract local and foreign talent. It is also no secret that at the moment we are negotiating to take over the old power house. We believe that this could be an added attraction for tourists, and will be especially convenient for those arriving by cruise liner.    Will the new parliament offer an art and culture space for the public? There are no plans at the moment but I am always open to ideas.   If you were to book a trip abroad to see and enjoy art or/and music where would you go (or been)? Recently, I went on a ministerial visit to China at the invitation of my Chinese counterpart. During this visit, Malta and China signed a cultural partnership agreement which should give Maltese artists more exposure abroad. I was struck by the excellence of the National Centre for Performing Arts. This is a multi-purpose performance centre, in the heart of Beijing with a capacity to hold three different mega-performances simultaneously. I would very much like to attend a performance there.    Do you collect, or wish to collect, art? I have been interested in antiques all my life and I collect such artefacts, especially Melitensia.   Which concerts are you looking forward to seeing the most from the Baroque Festival? I must say that all concerts and performances I have attended lately in Malta have proved to be very positive experiences. I’m certainly looking to forward to attending performances during the Baroque Festival. It gives me pleasure to say my government increased investment substantially in this festival.   What are the main priorities and plans by the government for the arts today? The government has showed its commitment to promoting the arts in Malta. In the past 10 months we have strived successfully to increase our artistic calendar. Examples are the Three Palaces Festival and the re-introduction of the Malta International Song festival. In this year’s budgetary estimates, we secured a €1.6 million increase, which will obviously help us reach our aims. We also have special funds to create new projects such as the Malta Dance Company. And we are also in the process of issuing an expression of interest for the creation of a cultural hub.     From you experience now as Parliamentary Secretary of Culture, what have you experienced and seen in the current art-scene in Malta? And what hopes, and plans, do you have for the future? I believe in an open door policy coupled with an arm’s length policy when it comes to artistic direction. My aim is to push more affirmatively the concept of a creative economy because this is the way to ensure culture is sustainable.     Interview was carried out on 9 January, just before the festival opened its doors to the public The Valletta International Baroque Festival 2014 ends on 26th January. For more information you can log on to www.vallettabaroquefestival.com.mt. For booking enquiries call 2124 6389 or email [email protected]. www.teatrumanoel.com.mt