Toni Attard – founder and director of Culture Venture
“Culture Venture will be leading the consultation process and research plan for the space which houses the Teatru Rjal. Essentially the consultation plan has nothing to do whether the theatre should be rebuilt, rebuilding should not be part of the conversation.
“It’s a simplified argument to say it’s just about a roof; it has much more to do than just a roof. The consultation goes into the discussion of how the space is used and how it can be used over a period of time.
“If you were to ask any theatre person, they would all say that we need a proper 21st century space, where one can use it and perform in it well. It is an extensive consultation process with the users of this space, actors, directors and also the residents and the business community impacted by the venue. The consultation is simply how to improve the open air space.”
Joseph Calleja – renowned Maltese tenor and Maltese Cultural Ambassador
“The first I heard of this was through the media on Budget Day. Nobody from government or any other entity has spoken to me about the issue.
“I had made my views known on this subject when the Valletta City Gate Project was being conceived back in 2009, saying at the time that I believe the site where our opera house once stood is an ideal location for a national theatre – with a roof of course! My opinion has not changed. I would wholeheartedly support an initiative to give Malta back its artistic home provided that whoever is involved in such a project has the nation’s best interests at heart.”
Peter Borg – music/artist producer, Red Electrick member
“When you consider that Malta has very few venues, I think that it is open air is not very helpful. If we had more closed theatres and spaces where, during the winter months, we can organise events, it would be fine to leave the theatre as is. I think the theatre itself brings a great atmosphere.
“Without taking into consideration the cost and what it will entail, ideally it would be a retractable roof – that would be the best of both worlds. During good weather, one would be able to leave the roof down and at other times during the wetter months, one does not have to cancel a performance or change venue.”