Few decades scream fun more than the 1960s and 70s. It was the time of protests against war and the rise of flower power, but it is also an era that produced arguably some of the best music ever performed.

In fact, covers of songs from The Beatles' catalogue feature heavily in Ellie, il-Musical, a new bilingual jukebox musical written by Simon Bartolo and based on an idea by Antoine Farrugia. The musical, which is set in late 60s and 70s Malta, tells the story of Ellie and three of her friends who enter a competition at a local music club. Mr Pepper, the club's owner, encourages the friends to form a band, but Ellie and her friend Kate both hope to continue their musical studies abroad, cutting short their time in Malta. Tensions abound between Pepper and his wife, while Ellie's parents, Frank and Maria Borg, can't seem to agree on anything. They all seem to forget that all they need is love.

Bringing the story to life is a top cast of seasoned and newer actors, among whom are Patrick Vella and Christine Francalanza, who will be playing Frank and Maria Borg. "Frank is like a mischievous child trapped in an adult's body and, as a perpetual mama's boy, he finds solace in his mother's loving embrace," says Vella of his character. "He's a family man, but his youthful spirit often overtakes his role as the patriarch of his household." In Frank we see a man who finds escape in the camaraderie he shares with his friends at the local band club, where they bond over their love of football and a cold beer. He is also determined in his conviction that those around him should heed his every word and obey him.

Although he doesn't feel that he has much in common with Frank, Vella tapped into his own experience as a father and his years of teaching drama to bring the character to life. "Put simply, Frank and I are opposites in many ways. I have no interest in football or każin culture, although I respect it. And while I deeply love my mother, I am far from being a mama's boy!" he shares. "However, my experience as a father and a teacher has given me insights into the complexities of parenting and influenced Frank's portrayal as a flawed yet loving figure."

The other half of the Borg couple is Maria, played by Christine Francalanza. Those familiar with Maltese theatre will have seen Francalanza in various productions, but this will be her first time acting and singing in a bilingual musical. "Maltese is my go-to language when it comes to acting as it flows naturally and I feel at ease using it," she confesses. "But while this isn't my first Maltese musical, it is the first one with songs in English. I'm confident that the decision to keep the songs in their original language will facilitate audience engagement since they will already be familiar with the music of that time. I know that my parents, who are also avid fans of the Fab Four, will undoubtedly be thrilled!"

As entertaining as Ellie, il-Musical promises to be, rehearsals seem to have been even more fun for the actors. "As they say, 'choose a job you love and you'll never work a day in your life'!" says Francalanza. "Working under the direction of Josette Ciappara has been truly enjoyable. She remembers well the era when the musical is set, so she provided us with first-hand insight into how things used to be."

There is little doubt that Ellie, il-Musical will have its audiences singing along while reminiscing about simpler times. "Prepare to immerse yourself in enchanting melodies and a captivating storyline that will transport you to the past," adds Francalanza. "And remember to bring along your friends, perhaps even dressed up in stylish 60s or 70s clothes. It will be an unforgettable night!"

Performances of Ellie, il-Musical will take place at Teatru Manoel at 8.30pm on Friday 30 June and on 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 July 2023. This production is suitable for audiences aged six and above. Tickets and more information are available via www.teatrumanoel.mt or by email to [email protected] and telephone on (+356) 2124 6389.