Your theatre has been part of Gozo’s opera and musical scene and cultural life for so long now — how would you describe its legacy today?

Teatru Astra has established itself as one of Malta’s foremost cultural institutions, with a legacy spanning decades of outstanding productions of various types. It is widely regarded as a pioneer in bringing grand opera to Gozo, blending artistic excellence with community involvement, whilst maintaining a culture of professionalism and ever-increasing standards to Malta’s cultural environment. Its productions have consistently set a benchmark for quality and have nurtured generations of local and international talent. Teatru Astra’s stage has made accessible to Maltese audiences a whole list of opera stars, such as Aldo Protti, Nicola Rossi Lemeni, Daniela Dessi, Ghena Dimitrova, Dimitra Theodossiou, Giuseppe Giacomini, Mark Rucker, Rumen Doikov, Pamela Kucenic, and many others, as well as proudly recalling that it was Astra’s stage that launched Joseph Calleja’s highly successful international career back in 1997. One should also mention that Astra’s stage hosted pop stars such as Raffaella Carra, the Goggi sisters, Albano & Romina Power, Nek, and Amedeo Minghi, even though those are beside the subject in question.

What makes attending the Gozo opera here a special experience for visitors?

Attending an opera at Teatru Astra offers a unique blend of world-class artistry and intimate Mediterranean charm. Visitors experience the grandeur of Puccini, Verdi, Donizetti, Bellini, Bizet, or whichever composer, performed at the highest level, while also enjoying Gozo’s warm hospitality, rich history, and vibrant culture. The combination of exquisite productions and the island’s atmosphere creates an unforgettable cultural journey, an escape from reality. Upon the stage, behind the curtains, in the pit and throughout the hall, each instant is a singular creation, never to be lived again. The performance breathes as one, shared by hundreds of souls gathered in communion. Feelings surge and falter, yet they intertwine in a harmony that renders them sublime, at times erupting in brilliance.

How do you see your theatre’s role in keeping opera alive as part of Gozo’s cultural identity?

Teatru Astra’s role goes far beyond staging grand productions. The theatre has become a cradle for nurturing artists—offering opportunities for young Maltese singers, musicians, designers, and technicians to work alongside established international professionals. In this way, talent is fostered within a professional yet supportive environment, where newcomers can develop their craft and gain invaluable stage experience.

Equally important is the cultivation of a love for theatre and music within the wider community. Through initiatives such as educational outreach, workshops, talks, and collaborations, Astra introduces new audiences to opera, often transforming first encounters into lifelong passions. The theatre has long recognised that opera cannot remain confined to a select audience, but must be opened to all, particularly the younger generation.

Astra also serves as a space where creativity can flourish—welcoming those who may be taking their first steps into the world of performance and production, even through voluntary work. The tradition of voluntary service at Astra is itself a cornerstone of Gozo’s cultural fabric: hundreds of individuals, from choristers to dancers, from stage hands to seamstresses, from ushers to set builders, dedicate their time and energy to bring each production to life. This spirit of a collective effort not only keeps costs manageable but, more importantly, deepens the sense of ownership and pride within the community.

This way, Teatru Astra is not merely a venue for opera. It is a living institution.

Your theatre has staged many operas.   What are some memorable moments or productions from your past?

Over the years, Teatru Astra has brought to life unforgettable productions of some of the world’s most loved operas, operettas, symphonies, and musicals, each of which raised the bar nationwide. One could easily boast about the spectacular sets, the star performers, and landmark productions that resonated beyond the island. However, what is truly memorable is looking back and realising that Astra has been a cradle for artists, musicians, and singers. Kickstarting Joseph Calleja’s career is a case in point. One also gets the thrill of spearheading a brand-new production from scratch, being on stage with some of Europe’s most sought-after artists, introducing new technologies and contemporary methods to the production, and at the end, watching all the bits and pieces take shape to form a monumental performance. Every season adds to Astra’s reputation as a cultural beacon.

This year, your theatre is bringing Tosca to the audience. Why did you choose Tosca for this season?  What makes this season different from past years?

This year marks the 125^th anniversary of the first performance of Tosca at Rome’s Teatro Costanzi. Tosca nevertheless has a timeless appeal, and dramatic intensity, qualities that resonate strongly with both seasoned opera lovers and newcomers, and is therefore always a good choice. Puccini’s score is a masterpiece of passion, love, and political intrigue, offering what is within doubt the most complete theatrical experience. This is also the first time that Tosca is being performed on Astra’s stage. Albeit it was produced by Astra back in 2004, it had to be done at the Hilton in Malta due to the previous year’s fire, which destroyed our theatre.

This season stands out for its ambitious vision, where we are hosting two of Puccini’s masterpieces within a period of seven months, with various other productions including musicals, pantomimes, and concerts in between.

For someone new to opera, what makes Tosca such a powerful story to watch?

Tosca is one of the most accessible operas because it combines gripping drama with Puccini’s soaring melodies. It tells a story of love, jealousy, and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of political unrest in Rome within a period of less than 24 hours. With its emotional, dramatic and orchestral intensity, unforgettable arias, and a thrilling pace, it is a perfect embodiment of the spellbinding world of opera.

What atmosphere can visitors expect when they walk into your theatre for this production?

One can expect an atmosphere of glamour and elegance, along with a huge anticipation for what is one of Malta’s top productions for this season. During the performance, the atmosphere is of intense drama and passion, presented through a fresh, contemporary lens. This production offers a bold, original take on the familiar story, with modern staging and design that bring new immediacy to Puccini’s timeless tale.

Why should people not miss your staging of Tosca this season? 

As I already highlighted, our production of Tosca presents a fresh and original vision of Puccini’s opera. Audiences will experience innovative staging, striking lighting, and contemporary visual design that bring new life to the drama. The performances are emotionally intense and deeply immersive, highlighting the passion, jealousy, and suspense that drive the story. This production transforms familiar scenes into moments of raw immediacy, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Are there other key dates that people who love theatre and music should take note for their itinerary this year?

In addition to Tosca, which forms part of Festival Mediterranea, Teatru Astra will continue its programme of concerts and other productions. Highlights include Robin Hood, a pantomime which will be presented between the 26^th and 30^th December, Singin’ in the Rain on the 14^th, 15^th, 20^th, 21^st, and 22^nd March, and Puccini’s Turandot, on the 30^th May.

How to book for this year’s opera:

Tosca will be held on the 23^rd and 25^th October 2025. Tickets can be booked directly through Teatru Astra’s website www.teatruastra.org.mt, or by contacting the theatre’s box office on +356 2155 0985. Early booking is recommended.

VisitGozo extends its appreciation to Mr George Cassar for his contribution to this interview and to Mr Joe Attard for the accompanying photographs.