Teatru Manoel
115 Triq it-Teatru l-Antik, Valletta, Malta, 1062
This gem of a theater was built in 1732 by a wealthy knight to provide entertainment for the troops, and has been open on-and-off ever since. Built in a Mannerist style on the outside and containing gold and gilt opulence on the inside, the main auditorium has a delicately patterned blue and gold trompe l'oeil ceiling and seats 623 audience members.
The basics
Over the centuries, the theater has expanded and taken over other buildings. The neighboring Casa Bonici has been incorporated into the complex, adding a white marble staircase to the theater foyer and providing a pretty courtyard bar. The theater plays a major part in the Maltese arts scene. The repertoire includes opera, ballet, classical concerts, and jazz and rock concerts as well as the occasional Maltese folk concert. Visitors can come attend concerts or take a self-guided tour of the theater (outside of show times), free for Malta Pass holders.
Things to know before you go
*The Manoel Theatre is a must-visit for fans of architecture and the performing arts. *Photography is allowed during self-guided theatre visits. *Only the ground floor is wheelchair-accessible.
How to get there
The Manoel Theatre is located in pedestrianized Valletta, two blocks from St George's Square and four blocks from the Sliema ferry terminal. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the bus terminus. For those coming by car, there is designated parking area just outside the City Gate.
When to get there
Every Wednesday there is a free classical concert in one of the recital rooms and the theater offers year-round program of festivals and performances, with everything from orchestral concerts to comedy shows. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour.
Beyond Performances
The Manoel Theatre has a museum section that showcases costumes, wigs, and scenery from three centuries of theatrical tradition on Malta, plus a display on the Royal Opera House, which was destroyed by bombing in World War II. Costumes are also available for rent and the theater even has a few apartments for tourists that are available as vacation rentals.
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