Passiontide, the Easter festival being organised by St James Cavalier and the Valletta Rehabilitation Project, will be starting its series of concerts today with a Medieval Chant, Renaissance and 20th Century polyphony today at 11:30am.

The week-long calendar of performing and visual arts include dance and theatre performances, and a film screening featuring Dryer’s silent masterpiece ‘The Passion of Joan of Arc’ with live music.

An impressive group of around 50 artists will be performing in the baroque church of St Catherine of Italy in Valletta. These include Collegium Musicum under the direction of Maestro Dion Buhagiar, Sandra Mifsud, ProMuzika ensemble, John McDonough, Alex Vella Gregory, Musique Vocal Ensemble, Marita Bezzina, Michelle Cachia Castelletti, Brian Cefai, Louis Cassar and Polly March.

Another artist taking part is Kris Spiteri who will be directing a jazz performance in St James Cavalier’s theatre in the round, entitled The Seven Last Words. This is a contemporary improvised meditation that views the last words of Jesus Christ not merely as a historic and religious representation, but also as powerful words of faith.

Passiontide performances will last all week with performances even on Good Friday and on Easter Sunday. A full programme of performances can be accessed from www.sjcav.org or by calling St James Cavalier on21223200.

All proceeds from this festival will go towards the Restoration Fund of St Catherine of Italy Chapel in Valletta.