Described as the first original musical in Maltese highlighting local environmental issues, Wara l-Hajt tas-Sejjieh targets illegal waste, environmental vandalism, and disrespect towards our own flora and fauna, apart from global warming. The one-act energetic musical, involving live music, installation costumes, stilt walking, juggling, aerial work, and an incredibly realistic set, is presented by the Curtain Raiser theatre troupe team at St James Cavalier, Centre for Creativity.
The imaginative story features nature's characters who decide to declare war against humankind in order to teach them a lesson, however some of the characters do not like the idea of war as they are sure there are other ways of making humans aware that nature is very important, and has its own rights too. The characters include the Maltese lizard, the prickly pear tree, thyme, the snail, the Maltese national plant widnet il-bahar and the hajt tas-sejjieh (the cobble wall).
"We are putting on a highly imaginative show with the aim to entertain and educate at the same time," said Curtain Raiser's founder Patrick Vella. He is also responsible for production, design, concept and direction, while the script has been penned by Tyrone Grima and the music by Abigail Brown. The show is also supported by the Ministry of Rural Affairs and Environment, MEPA, WasteServe, 34U and St. James, Centre for Creativity.
"The whole issue is that besides hurting nature, every time we are not sensitive to its needs, we are being self-destructive. Nature has its own rights too," explained Patrick Vella. "Wherever one may sit inside the theatre, they will be surrounded by the 'Bruka' or the 'Bajtra' making one feel that they are actually outdoors rather than in." There will be free multiple shows starting from 6pm onwards on Notte Bianca Lejl Imdawwal. Patrons for the Saturday shows do not need to book tickets but can collect a ticket on their way in at the Reception desk.
Wara l-Hajt tas-Sejjieh will be performed twice on Sunday (7th October), a late matinee at 5.30pm and another performance at 8.00pm. Booking for the Sunday shows can be made from St James Cavalier.
Notte Bianca Lejl Imdawwal's artistic director, Mary Ann Cauchi, said: "St James Cavalier will be re-baptised as Kidszone. On the night, this Centre will be made particularly attractive to kids with an arts and crafts area, animators, interactive games, human statues, hands-on music, gadgets, and big installations. From 6pm to 11pm kids can enjoy walking the plank, face painting, jack in the box, and twister. Apart from attending one of the performances of the original musical Wara l-Hajt tas-Sejjieh, kids can meet the friendly Dragon Mascot, a robot who teaches about recycling, as well as two friendly creatures suggesting what is best to eat. We'll leave a few surprises for those who decide to visit St James Cavalier on the night. By the way, these performances are all free of charge."