The Malta Independent 13 February 2025, Thursday
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‘The pleasure’s all mine’

Marie Benoît Sunday, 26 January 2025, 08:00 Last update: about 18 days ago

JAMES SPITERI TANTI, Teatru Salesjan volunteer, speaks to Marie Benoît about the newly-refurbished Teatru Salesjan in Sliema, where he dedicates so much of his time

I understand that you work as a volunteer at Teatru Salesjan. How long have you been associated with it?

I've been involved with the Salesians of Don Bosco and Teatru Salesjan since 2004, both as part of leadership and as a hands-on volunteer. It's been fulfilling to contribute to the theatre's mission, as it's a place close to my heart. My running joke is that I pay to be here, which isn't too far from reality. But it's all worth it!

 

What are the main challenges you face?

One of our main challenges is balancing our community mission with the operational realities of running a theatre. It's essential that we make the theatre accessible to everyone while also generating enough revenue to keep our programming sustainable. We want to support local and emerging artists, which is central to our vision, but it requires consistent funding and creative planning.

 

Do the theatre's finances come from just tickets, or do you have other sources of income?

Our finances are diverse. Besides ticket sales, we rely on venue hiring, grants, sponsorships and donations from various organisations, foundations and government entities. For example, we have ongoing support from Arts Council Malta for which we apply every three years, and we're actively applying for additional funding opportunities. This multi-stream approach helps us focus on projects that align with our goals rather than just what's financially feasible. It's not easy, that's for sure. People come in and see a functioning organisation, but behind the scenes, it's a constant balancing act between operational needs and maintaining our social mission.

 

The theatre has been recently refurbished. What are the main changes?

The refurbishment was extensive and essential. The stage ceiling has been replaced, and a new fly system installed. We dug up the stage and created a new orchestra pit. The balconies on each side were dismantled and rebuilt to thrust into the sides of the proscenium - as it was originally when the theatre was built in 1908. We've also updated the seating, refurbished the stage flooring and lighting to enhance the experience for both performers and audiences. This upgrade has allowed us to host more diverse events, giving the theatre a modern edge while respecting its heritage.

 

Do you have a committee?

Yes, Teatru Salesjan has a dedicated executive committee and management team that oversee everything from programming to financial planning and outreach. They are essential in shaping the theatre's vision and supporting our mission of nurturing culture in our community.

 

You have had several successful events since the theatre's refurbishment, which must please you. Is it the committee that decides what type of events you put on?

The committee does play a role in setting strategic directions for the types of events we pursue, but we also work closely with local artists and community groups. Our goal is to strike a balance between traditional and contemporary performances, ensuring that we cater to all ages and tastes.

 

Which event has been the most successful so far?

One of our standout successes, as an event produced 100% by TS, has been the Flamenco event featuring Puerto Flamenco. It was not just a showcase of incredible talent but also a celebration of Spanish culture, with after-parties that included live music, food and drink. The event drew a diverse audience and demonstrated the theatre's ability to host high-calibre international acts while keeping the community spirit alive.

 

What forthcoming events can the public look forward to?

The theatre is open daily in the morning and early afternoon as a café, a meeting spot for anyone who wishes to support us beyond ticketed events. Anyone who makes a purchase from the café bar becomes a Patron of Teatru Salesjan - a testament to the goodwill that is around us. Otherwise one can go to our website www.tsmalta.com to see what's on.

 

What is your idea of happiness?

Happiness is about finding meaning in what I do and seeing the positive impact it has on others, particularly when it brings people together in a shared experience, like a powerful performance.

 

What is it that you most fear?

My biggest fear is not being able to fulfill the theatre's mission. I want to see Teatru Salesjan become a vibrant, lasting cultural hub, so any threat to that vision is something I work hard to prevent.

 

What is your greatest extravagance?

My greatest extravagance might be the time and energy I dedicate to theatre projects. It's a true passion, but I wouldn't trade it for anything else.

 

How does Teatru Salesjan cater to the younger generation?

Teatru Salesjan is deeply committed to engaging the younger generation. One of our key initiatives is the Roaring Voices Youth Company, which provides a platform for young performers to develop their skills and showcase their talent. We also run outreach programmes designed to inspire creativity in schoolchildren, giving them hands-on opportunities to explore theatre-making. It's about creating a safe space where young people can experiment, take risks, and grow.

 

How do you see the future of Teatru Salesjan?

I envision Teatru Salesjan as a "home for the young", a place where young people can come to express themselves, develop their artistic talents, and feel part of a supportive community. We're also looking to expand our facilities to include the latest AV technology, which will open new possibilities for live music and experimental performances. Our goal is to keep innovating while staying true to our roots as a community-led theatre.

 

If you had to describe Teatru Salesjan in one word, what would it be?

"Heart" - it's the heart of the community, the heart of creativity and the heart of my passion. Everything we do here comes from a place of love and commitment to making a difference.

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