Sliema's oldest community theatre, Teatru Salesjan, is no new name to many residents in the locality or any regular cultural enthusiasts who frequently enjoy a theatre experience. In recent years, it has quickly picked up in making itself more visible and known through its commitment in providing an eclectic platform of performances and initiatives. With the current pandemic situation, the theatre may have shut down for live audiences but the strong teams behind the curtains are ensuring that this challenging phase is being put to good use. Currently, major internal renovations and refurbishments are underway, conveniently timed to prepare Teatru Salesjan to once again open its doors to various audiences.

Other cultural and educational activity at the theatre will not remain dormant. Teatru Salesjan boasts its very own educational training programme which will recommence in October. Supported by the ADRC and the BOV Joseph Calleja Foundation, one of the educational strands is Sally Sounds, a group comprised of two ensembles - Sally Singers, a vocal group, and Sally Strings, a group of young string players.

Sally Sounds aspires to nurture, embrace and encourage music talent in offering children the opportunity to develop the core foundational skills in vocal and instrumental practice. This ongoing educational initiative provides a creative, fun and musical home for youngsters while simultaneously embracing the importance of positive values and maintaining exceptional standards. Founder and director of Sally Sounds, Gisèle Grima, will this year be joined by two young, leading musicians on the island, Desirée Quintano and Stefan Calleja, who together will be training the Sally Strings members in ensemble playing. Fresh out of their postgraduate studies in the UK, Desirée and Stefan are principal leaders of the Malta Youth Orchestra. With a wealth of experience in chamber and orchestral playing, there is no doubt that this duo will bring a new energy to stimulate and inspire Sally Strings.

Auditions for new members to join either ensemble will be taking place on the mornings of Saturday, 26 and Sunday, 27 September at St Patrick's Church, Sliema.

For more information regarding auditions for Sally Sounds, parents and students are encouraged to send an email to [email protected].