“This is the first time I’m taking part in a Panto (I’m playing the Fairy Tinkerbell), although it’s not the first time I’m acting with the Teatru Rjal Company,” says popular singer Leontine. “I am very enthusiastic about working with such brilliant actors as Hector Bruno, who have such vast experience in these type of shows. Rehearsals are in full swing with plenty of laughter. I’m really happy to be working with director Anthony Ellul on a very good original script by Jose’ Micallef.”
Popeye will be the leading man in this year’s Panto, promising yet another evening of entertainment and laughter for the whole family. Popeye u l-Pastizzi ta’ l-Ispinaci is a show full of fantasy, singing and dancing on the same lines of previous pantomimes presented by Teatru Rjal. Work on the production started months ago and as Christmas approaches, the company is busy with its preparations.
The 60-strong cast led by Hector Bruno includes Ronald Briffa, Leontine, Brian Farrugia, Ina Robinich, Laura Bruno, Rodney Gauci, Louis Gatt, Eileen Micallef, Daniel Testa, Donha Marie Ellul and Rachel Cassar. Choreography is by Mariosa Pavia. As usual, the live band will be directed by Neville Gatt.
Performances will be held at the Catholic Institute in Floriana on 15 December at 6.30 pm, 16 December at 4 pm, 18 December and 19 December at 9.30am (for schoolchildren), 23 December at 6 pm, 26 December (Boxing Day) at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, 27-29 December at 7pm, 30 December at 2pm and 6.30pm. More performances will be held on 1 January at 6.30pm, 4 January at 7.30 pm, 5 January at 7pm, and 6 January at 2pm and 6.30pm.
The prices of tickets are Lm3.50 (e8.15), Lm4 (e9.32), Lm4.50 (e10.48), Lm4.75 (e11.06) and Lm5.15 (e12). The performances for schoolchildren on 18 and 19 December cost Lm2 (e4.65). Interested schools can phone the hotline booking number 2122-3340/2722-3340.
Booking is open at Pawlu Testa Travel of Gwardamangia (2122-3340 or 2722-3340), the Catholic Institute Booking Office (2123-8429), the Catholic Institute bar (2124-2551), Carmen Azzopardi of Rabat (2145-4836) and Tereza Bazaar of Zabbar (2189-2730).