Amber Bondin has had an eventful couple of years. When she wasn't busy with her day job or studying, presenting on television or singing, she also carrying out voluntary work (together with a group of friends she founded an NGO called Mzungu Mission which carries out voluntary work in various countries including Africa and India.).
And now, we will get to see her make her debut acting on stage as Serafina Danieli - a witch and prostitute from Modica, who has been charged with all kinds of evil acts. Amber describes Serafina as an assertive character who does not like to take orders from anyone, as she likes to be in control of every situation.
"When I got the call from Teatru Malta's Sean Buhagiar telling me about the musical and that he'd like me to be part of it, I was honestly shocked at first," Amber says, "I just couldn't believe it. Theatre was something I always wanted to do even though I have no experience. So I said yes immediately."
The plot of Il-Ħanina Maddalena revolves around the congregation of the Magadeline nuns and what happens behind closed doors. In parallel, it tackles life on the streets with women making a living through prostitution. The plot also revolves around the power struggle between men and women, as the plot presents wealthy and powerful men from the order of the knights and the clergy.
"Many might have never heard about the Magdalene nuns who actually lived in Valletta and even had their own convent. The fact that the musical is based on true events makes even more interesting and unique," explains Amber. "Dominic Galea's music compositions, Loranne Vella's lyrics and Simon Bartolo's plot and script make it unique in itself. The production is directed by one of the finest and most experienced directors in the Maltese theatre scene - Josette Ciappara."
Over 40 cast members are taking part in this production. They include Chiara who plays the Madre, Leontine as Katarina Vitale and Dorothy Bezzina as Teresa l-Bormliza.
"All the people taking part in this production are super talented," asserts Amber, "People working in theatre and in the music scene have joined forces in this production which I believe is something really special. The musical is a roller coaster of emotions. You laugh in one scene and cry in another."
According to Amber, the best part about rehearsals has to be Josette's dog Pug who is there for every rehearsal, observes every scene and sometimes even comments by barking.
"Joking aside. I got to know most of the cast through the rehearsals and I think that is the best part. Working with Josette Ciappara is a privilege. She's not only a great director but also one of the best motivators. Rehearsals were more demanding than I planned," she admits, "however along the way I learnt that these will surely serve their purpose, especially having such a big cast. I always look forward to every rehearsal."
Being a huge football fan and having to miss some matches due to rehearsals made it even harder for Amber. Still, the fact that she sides with Italy, did make it 'easier' for her, since they did not qualify for the World Cup this year. However, the cast admittedly were on the lookout for live scores on their mobiles... something the director wasn't quite fond of!
Il-Ħanina Maddalena, which is part of the Malta Arts Festival and is commissioned by Valletta 2018 and Festivals Malta, will take place at Pjazza Teatru Rjal in Valletta between the 18th and 29th July. More information may be obtained from the dedicated Facebook page. Tickets are available from: www.ilhanina.com.