Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1153841
YA: I think it would be re- miss to deny that we're ex- periencing a brain drain of sorts, however it is somewhat inevitable when you bear in mind that we still lack vo- cational training for actors and performers. I think that while local training and op- portunities are great, one has to broaden their horizons and look at new opportuni- ties in order to learn and grow – otherwise we'd be living in a vacuum. When a young artist leaves the island, not only are they investing in themselves but they are gain- ing experience that they can bring back to the local indus- try. I have quite an optimis- tic outlook on this because we should be proud of our heritage and I hope that our generation will continue to boost our industry with their knowledge, because it is our responsibility to keep it alive and moving. With that in mind, what do you make of the local performing arts scene, and what would you change about it? MC: I think that our au- diences have a tendency to look for established and well- known productions because they know what to expect. On the other hand, there is a lot of new and original material being produced and I feel that this needs more appreciation, especially when it's a Maltese artist's original work. YA: The theatrical commu- nity in Malta is quite unique because it is such a small one, whenever you're watching a show, you will always know at least one person in the cast. In my opinion, it's something really special, we have a small community that is full of many talented artists. Side by Side will be per- formed at the Malta Society of Arts, Palazzo de la Salle, Republic Street, Valletta on August 17 at 8.30pm. The show will be performed by Martina Cuschieri and Yan- drick Agius, who will be ac- companied by John Cutajar. Bookings: sidebysideconcert@ gmail.com maltatoday | SUNDAY • 11 AUGUST 2019 7 THIS WEEK THEATRE swansong to the island There is a lot of new and original material being produced and I feel that this needs more appreciation, especially when it's a Maltese artist's original work – Martina Cuschieri