Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1034189
CULTURE | SUNDAY • 30 SEPTEMBER 2018 maltatoday 15 THEATRE MALTA'S National Theatre has launched its concluded restorations, which spanned over a year. The res- torations, part-financed by the Eu- ropean Regional Development Fund (80% EU & 20% National Funds), in- clude the installation of a new venti- lation and acclimatisation system; the rehabilitation of the roof; and the new designer seating in the plateau. The much needed ventilation and acclimatisation system operates by passing either hot or cold water (de- pending on the desired temperature) through the ceiling and flooring which will keep constant temperatures, hu- midity levels and preferred air qual- ity throughout the year, while at the same time limiting the generation of air currents and noise inside the thea- tre. This will improve the acoustics of the theatre and its versatility in use. The system will operate around the clock, avoiding drastic changes in temperature levels, which would oth- erwise result in damage to the beauti- ful woodwork and priceless paintings of the theatre. The state of the art system has been built using the latest technology avail- able on the market, custom-made spe- cifically for Teatru Manoel, making it energy efficient and environmentally friendly. This investment has taken place because the theatre did not fea- ture an adequate ventilation or air- conditioning system. The new HVAC system will in turn allow the audience to be more com- fortable during shows. The plateau flooring has been up- graded from ceramic to wood, which will give better acoustics when the or- chestra and opera are performing. The project will not only make the setting more comfortable for the audience and performers, but will also enhance their overall experience at the theatre due to better sound quality. The new seating, following the fitting of new parquet flooring was designed in consonance with the theatre's ba- roque style, and has been changed to better suit the theatre and patrons alike. The new seating system eliminates the central aisle and is also installed offset, giving a much better view of the stage. The previous seats were installed about 30 years ago. The project also included the rehabilitation of the the- atre's roof, with the main intervention being the installing of steel trusses as support for the new ventilation sys- tem. "I invite you to visit the theatre, to appreciate the architecture while enjoying one of our performances (scheduled between September and June) or on a morning tour inside the auditorium and our famous boxes", states Teatru Manoel's CEO, Eliza- beth Ebejer. For more information visit www.te- atrumanoel.mt It's cool to be at the Manoel… but warm in winter New seating and acclimatisation system in place at Teatru Manoel for a better experience The new seating system has done away with the central aisle