On 26 September, the Eden Cinemas will launch the 2016-17 season of Live Cinema from the Royal Opera. The slate shall commence with a new production of Bellini's operatic masterpiece, Norma, featuring the Maltese world-famous tenor Joseph Calleja, which will be broadcast live directly to Eden's screens. 

The new production is conducted by Antonio Pappano and distinguished by a superlative cast of internationally renowned singers. Bellini's classic bel canto opera is full of wonderful melodies and opportunities for star singing. But it is especially known for Norma's stunning showpiece aria, Casta diva. Àlex Ollé, of innovative Catalan theatre group La Fura dels Baus, brings a modern edge to this timeless tale of love, rivalry and betrayal, set against a backdrop of war driven by the extremes of a fanatically religious society. 

Royal Opera music director Antonio Pappano conducts this stunning cast including Bulgarian soprano Sonya Yoncheva as Norma, with Joseph Calleja as her secret lover, Pollione, Sonia Ganassi as the priestess Adalgisa and Brindley Sherratt as Norma's father Oroveso.

The screening shall commence at 8.15 sharp, however doors will open at 7.45pm for a pre-production drinks reception.

Through lighting and other details, Eden Cinemas shall create the feel of a theatre environment, while giving the audience a chance to experience a unique opportunity to see Joseph Calleja at the Royal Opera House, without leaving the country.

Tickets are available at €18 for adults and €10 for children and under 16. This includes a complimentary glass of wine and complimentary parking at the Eden Leisure Car park.

An encore performance will take place the following Sunday at 3pm. Tickets are at €15 for adults and €10 for under 16s.

The event is sponsored by Attard and Co., 35 South, 'Encore' magazine, The Malta Arts Council and Waterbiscuit.

Tickets may be purchased from the Eden Cinema box office or online at www.edencinemas.com.mt