Mepa has approved a constellation of plans designed by Renzo Piano that were commissioned by the government for its projects for Valletta.

Irrespective of ideals from either side of a very clear dichotomy, the decision is now final. The interpretations however are not. No doubt they continue to evolve, and mature.

Design, as a subject in its own right, belongs to artists, yet politicians have imposed their will and subjected Mr Piano to it.

Given that a parliament building might empower politicians to decide over its design requirements, an art theatre does not, unless it is to be a political theatre. No such term has been coined as yet but since no theatre maker (Mr Piano is not a theatre maker) is involved in the design requirements of the ex-Royal Opera House Theatre ruins that are to be retained to effectively embody a new theatre, such a definition is not far from the truth.

Do the Maltese want a Political Theatre? Did Mepa vote for this?

Cecil Jones

BIRKIRKARA