Though it was written about a century ago, Zeza tal-Flagship still remains a favourite with theatre-goers. The musical comedy by Hermann Bonaci Productions based on the original script by Mikelang Borg has been revived with a new version by Joe Gatt and will be performed at the Catholic Institute Theatre in Floriana.

The story, set at the turn of the 20th century, is located in a bar in Barcellonetta, a part of Floriana. Many of our ancestors remember when night life used to depend wholly on servicemen. That was why many bars and night clubs were situated in that part of the suburb, very close to the British barracks, nowadays known as Beltissebh.

The Flagship Bar used to stand in front of the Mall. Today modern offices have taken over, including a part of the Government Treasury. Every night it used to be a mecca of entertainment, with singing, dancing, smoke and booze. Many used to be charmed by Zeza’s natural beauty, a true diva. In those days, such outlets were denounced by many locals and therefore the news that any aristocrat had been caught in some saucy adventure with a woman practising the world’s oldest profession would be the talk of the town. And any nobel who was caught out, tried to make excuses for the sake of his own honour and pride. Women like Zeza not only know how to cast a spell on men’s hearts, they also know how to break them. One can never find love in such places. Many tried to woo her, but to no avail: women like Zeza are there for all but belong to no one.

The musical comedy Zeza tal-Flagship includes 21 songs with melodies from popular songs.

The cast includes several well-known actors and actresses. The part of Zeza is played by popular TV actress and presenter Frida Cauchi and the rest of the cast consists of Hermann Bonaci, Simon Curmi, Marianne Muscat, Brian Farrugia, Simone Zammit, Christabelle Curmi, Marilyn Custo, Joe Gatt, Antoinette Bonaci, Ronnie Galea, Mary Zarb, Neville Refalo and Triccas. The Paul Curmi dancers will play the nightclub’s resident dancing troupe, ably directed by Eldridge Saliba Curmi, Sarah Mercieca and AnnMarie Baldacchino.

There will be a live orchestra directed by Maestro Dominic Darmanin, with vocals from the Amadeus Chamber Choir under Michelle Castelletti’s direction. Zeza tal-Flagship, under Ray Abdilla’s direction, will be performed at the Catholic Institute Theatre on 2, 4, 10 and 11 February. Booking is now open.