Both singers have forged successful careers abroad and have been described as “the best ambassadors for Malta in the cultural sector”.

Accompanied by the National Orchestra, they will give an hour-long show in the main concert hall of the Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC) as part of WelcomEurope, the celebrations organised for the night of Malta’s EU accession.

Speaking at a press conference regarding the show, Lou Bondi explained that the participation of Ms Gauci and Mr Calleja is an added bonus since it did not form part of the original programme. Both singers are in high demand overseas and usually command a hefty fee, but on this special occasion they have chosen to perform for a fraction of the cost.

Addressing the press, Tourism and Culture minister Francis Zammit Dimech explained that this show is the only event on the night that the public will have to pay to watch. A show of this calibre usually has a high cost of admission, but the MCC are keeping to reasonable prices and tickets will cost something between Lm10 and Lm15.

Dr Zammit Dimech said that the two opera singers will be recording an interpretation of the Maltese national anthem which will be played a few minutes before midnight on 30 April. He was honoured that Miriam Gauci and Joseph Calleja are taking time out of their busy schedule to perform in their home country.

Both singers expressed their enthusiasm for the impending concert and their hope for its success.

Ms Gauci said that EU accession will provide better opportunities for Maltese talent to be successful abroad. Mr Calleja, who has recently launched his first solo CD, said that with perseverance and sacrifice, the Maltese can easily build a solid career overseas.

Tickets should be available next week from the MCC ticket centre.