The journey of curating performances and workshops for the ŻiguŻajg Arts Festival for Children and Young People begins with an open call for applications. "Last year we received over 120 submissions, which we carefully reviewed to ensure the festival remains accessible and fair," Vella explained. The selection process involves not only assessing individual submissions but also identifying gaps in age recommendations, themes and artistic disciplines to ensure a diverse and balanced programme. Prioritising innovative works that resonate with the festival's mission is crucial. "We aim to foster creativity, critical thinking and emotional growth in children through the art we showcase," she added.

Each year, the themes of ŻiguŻajg are inspired by current artistic trends and pressing societal conversations. For the upcoming festival, the central theme focuses on perception and transformation, exploring how art can shift our understanding of beauty, emotions and identity. Vella emphasised: "We aim to address social issues that resonate with young audiences, such as self-awareness, emotional intelligence, mental health and justice." In addition to contemporary themes, the festival also honours classics like Peter & The Wolf and Greek mythology tales, believing that "art is a powerful tool for children to reflect on their own lives and navigate complex feelings".

Collaboration lies at the heart of ŻiguŻajg, enriching the cultural fabric of Malta. "These partnerships allow us to bring diverse perspectives and artistic practices to the festival," Vella explained. This year, the festival is set to feature no less than five international shows from the UK, the USA, Italy, Romania and Greece, reflecting its commitment to artistic diversity. Workshops at the festival are carefully crafted to create a safe space for children to explore their emotions. "Each workshop offers both artistic instruction and emotional exploration," she shared. For example, the workshop titled Clay Relief: Turning Fears into Beauty allows participants to reframe their anxieties through clay modelling. This hands-on approach ensures a variety of techniques and materials are used, catering to different interests and learning styles.

To capture the attention of young audiences, ŻiguŻajg emphasises interactive and immersive experiences. Performances like Chasing Rainbows invite toddlers into a hands-on exploration of colours, while productions such as The Trial of Nina engage the audience in shaping the storyline. "We strive to balance artistic technique with personal expression, allowing children to feel part of the creative process," Vella noted. The festival's commitment to improvement is evident in how it gathers feedback. Post-event surveys, discussions with educators and debrief sessions with artists help refine future programming. "The feedback we receive directly influences our planning for future festivals," she said, underscoring the importance of community input in shaping the festival's direction.

Organising the ŻiguŻajg Festival comes with its challenges. "One of the biggest challenges is balancing the logistical aspects with the creative vision," Vella admitted. The geographical constraints of being on an island often complicate logistics, particularly when coordinating with international artists. Despite these hurdles, the team remains dedicated to maintaining a fresh and exciting line-up that aligns with the festival's mission. The impact of the festival on children and young people in Malta is evaluated through both qualitative and quantitative measures. Attendance numbers and participant feedback provide insight into the festival's reach and effectiveness. Vella emphasised: "The emotional and personal connections made during the festival, whether through a powerful performance or a hands-on workshop, are invaluable indicators of our success."

As the festival evolves, the artistic team is exploring new initiatives and changes. "We aim to expand our reach through digital platforms and touring versions of productions," Vella shared. Inclusivity is also a priority, with efforts to ensure the festival is accessible to children from diverse backgrounds and abilities. Community engagement is central to the festival's success. Collaborations with local schools, theatres, and community organisations help integrate the festival into the lives of Maltese children. "This year, workshops like Colours after the gloom provide children with opportunities to express their emotions creatively," Vella highlighted. Engaging the audience in storytelling decisions further enhances community participation.

Reflecting on the festival's history, Vella recalled a particularly poignant moment: "Seeing the children so deeply invested in the storytelling truly encapsulates what ŻiguŻajg is all about." She shared a light-hearted anecdote about a mishap involving the wrong tape on a set, where the team banded together to rectify the situation, showcasing the spirit of collaboration and commitment to the festival's success. Vella's passion for the arts is deeply personal. "Growing up, the arts provided me with a means of self-expression and discovery," she shared. This passion drives her to curate a programme that not only entertains but nurtures emotional growth and creativity. "I want every child who attends ŻiguŻajg to leave feeling inspired and empowered," she concluded.

As the ŻiguŻajg Arts Festival for Children and Young People approaches, it promises to be a vibrant celebration of the arts, fostering creativity and emotional growth among young audiences in Malta. With a diverse line-up, innovative workshops and a strong commitment to community engagement, the festival continues to inspire and connect children through the transformative power of the arts.

For more information and to book your tickets visit www.ziguzajg.org