The much-anticipated Stephen Schwartz: Defying Gravity concert being held twice on 29 September, is set to soar even higher! Along with a star-studded cast of Broadway, West End and Maltese talent, the producers have announced that celebrated UK theatre legend and world-renowned tenor John Owen-Jones will be joining the already dazzling line-up.

Affectionately known as JOJ, John Owen-Jones has captivated global audiences with his legendary performances, most notably in his portrayal of The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera - a role he has played nearly 2,000 times on the West End!

He is also hailed as the definitive Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, having embodied the character over a remarkable 20-year span, beginning as the youngest-ever Valjean at just 26 years old. As the first British actor to play Jean Valjean on both Broadway and the West End, his performances have become iconic.

Reflecting on this monumental concert, John said: "I first visited Malta on a family holiday when I was young, my first ever holiday abroad, and I am delighted to be returning again. I have a feeling that my visit this time around will be more special however, as it'll be my first time performing there! A beautiful venue, a phenomenal orchestra and an amazing company of performers singing the songs of one of the greatest ever musical theatre composers, Stephen Schwartz. And best of all, Stephen Schwartz himself will be part of the show too. What a gift! I can't wait to get on that stage. I feel just as lucky as the audience members who have tickets for this very special event!"

This magical evening will feature Stephen Schwartz himself, making his first-ever appearance in Malta to perform his iconic works. Accompanied by over 70 musicians from the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of the Hon. Ian MacGregor. This concert is unlike anything ever seen on the island.

Legendary composer and lyricist, Stephen Schwartz, shared: "I've wanted to visit Malta for years having heard from many friends about its natural beauty and fascinating history. And I'm especially excited to do so while collaborating with celebrated Maltese artists and musicians, including the marvellous tenor Joseph Calleja, terrific pop singers like Ira Losco and Destiny, and of course the Malta Philharmonic and this exceptional cast of international star talent. I think it's going to be a great evening! And then ... exploring Malta at last. I can't wait!"

Prepare to be swept away by epic, never-before-heard symphonic orchestrations of Broadway and film score favourites, including The Wizard and I, When You Believe, Defying Gravity, Out There, Corner of the Sky, and many more.

This stellar cast includes Stephen Schwartz, Keri René Fuller, Matthew James Thomas, Michael McCorry Rose, Ira Losco, Destiny and John Owen-Jones. Joseph Calleja will be making an exclusive appearance at the 7.30pm show.

Tickets are selling fast - don't miss your chance to witness this once-in-a-lifetime concert experience. Prepare to be enchanted as the magic of Stephen Schwartz's music takes flight like never before.

Tickets for the 2.30 and 7.30pm shows on 29 September can be bought on showshappening.com.

The matinee show will be filmed and will feature a Q&A session with some of the members of the cast.