The highly anticipated debut of ‘’Baxx Baxx’’ by theatre production company Grokk Teatru will premiere this weekend at Manoel Theatre, Valletta, from the 20th-22nd July. The show sees an array of local talent who has joined forces to portray an amalgamation of short stories “Kulħadd ħalla isem warajh,” by renowned Maltese author Clare Azzopardi. Both Teatrue Manoel and Grokk Teatru collaborated for these limited three day performances.
Exploring the theme of ‘obsession’ the play sees four key characters’ lives entwine over individual obsessions. “Some characters are obsessed with material objects, others relations, and others lose their obsessions and obsess over obsessing,” adds Andre Agius, creative director.
The production draws stark parallels to modern day life in Malta, as well as containing a number of cultural references. But, what happens when these characters lives are turned upside down by a drastic change in their ordinary lives?
Obsession stands out in their relationships and their perspective of life alters according to the changes happening.
With Azzopardi’s blessing the team was able to twist the original works to create this unique performance. The surreal multi-level set is cleverly designed by inspired by a traditional village pjazza, with a modern dystopian edge. “Symbolically, the layers and levels echo the buildings commonly seen in the centre of our village squares,” notes fellow director Antonella Mifsud. “It’s very much a living production,” she adds. The show has been over one year in the making, with gruelling rehearsals having taken place since May.
“Everybody has had the chance to have their input, the script has been constantly moving, no one person is accountable, we have worked very well as a team,” adds actor Benjamin Abela. Benjamin has an excellent acting record, appearing as a lead role last year in Studio 18’s production ‘Dear Pete’ last year.
One element augmenting this production is the excellent music written by Luke Cucciardi. This is much more than a series of musical interludes but a veritable musical score underlining the various scenes and giving the whole piece a raw musical backdrop on which the tales of obsession unfold.
Baxx Baxx is a production by Teatru Manoel in Collaboration with Grokk Teatru, directed by Antonella Mifsud and André Agius. Featuring: Stephen Mintoff, Monique Dimech Genuis, Benjamin Abela, Raquel Theuma. Movement Direction by Kostas Papamatthaiakis. Sound Creation by Luke Cucciardi. Production Management and Photography by Emma Micallef. Production Design and Stage Management by Matthew Cassar. The three performances start at 9pm and take place at Teatru Manoel on the 21st, 22nd and 23rd July 2018.
Tickets can be purchased from the section Upcoming Events on www.teatrumanoel.com.mt , or via email on [email protected] or by calling tel: 2124 6389. Age: 14+.
Photos: Emma Micallef