Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1529355
10 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 15 NOVEMBER 2024 CULTURE IN a milestone year marking its 50th anniversary, Bank of Valletta renewed its support towards Gozo's celebrated operatic season, brining Giacomo Puc- cini's Il Trittico and Giuseppe Verdi's Giovanna d'Arco. These productions reflect both Gozo's rich cultural heritage and Bank of Val- letta's dedication to nurturing the arts across the Maltese Islands. Teatru Aurora's staging of Il Tritti- co celebrated the 100th anniversary of Puccini's death with three one-act operas presented together, each ex- ploring themes of love, loss, and the human condition. "It has been a unique opportunity for Maltese audiences to experience Il Trittico as Puccini in- tended it to be. This has also been made possible through the hard work of the Aurora's volunteers and the ongoing support from Bank of Valletta," said Maestro Colin Attard. Meanwhile, Teatru Astra's produc- tion of Giovanna d'Arco captivated au- diences with the powerful tale of Joan of Arc. Maestro John Galea noted, "Verdi's music brings depth to this iconic story, and it's always a thrill to see audiences respond so strongly." Reflecting on the Bank's commit- ment, Ernest Agius, Chief Operations Officer at Bank of Valletta, said, "This year, Gozo's Opera Houses staged two exceptional productions, showcasing the rich emotional depth and drama that only opera can deliver. Such pro- ductions bring people together and celebrate Maltese talent. Our support is about helping Gozo cultivate a niche that brings visitors and locals togeth- er through world-class performanc- es. These productions reflect the hard work and passion of volunteers and artists who share a vision of Gozo as a vibrant cultural destination." As Bank of Valletta celebrates 50 years of service and being an active member of the local communities, it remains firm in its commitment to help pave the way for the island's cultural sector to flourish, creating new opportunities for artistic expression and attracting visitors from Malta and beyond. Celebrating culture: Bank of Valletta backs Gozo's 2024 operatic season THE Leone Band of Victo- ria Gozo will today present its annual symphonic con- cert, this year entitled: Ou- vertures d'Opérette. After last year's resound- ing success with the Tchai- kovsky Concert, this year's edition promises to be no less, with a new accent and impetus brought about by another exhilarating musi- cal theme – the much loved French and Austrian oper- etta. Ouvertures d'Opèrette at the Teatru tal-Opra Aurora tonight promises the most entertaining night of music as overtures from some of the most famous operettas will resonate, one after the other. The Leone Band will be directed by Colin Attard. The set list includes the famous overtures, includ- ing Suppe's Poet and Peas- ant and Morning, Noon and Night in Vienna, Strauss's A Night in Venice and The Gypsy Baron (Der Zigeu- nerbaron) and Offenbach's La Belle Helene and Or- pheus in the Underworld. In true overture fashion, it comes full of verve and energy, bringing to life the celebratory spirit of Italian, French and Austrian march and waltz music, which Maltese audiences are so accustomed to watch on television over the festive season. The concert, expected to last around 80 minutes, starts at 8pm. Entrance is free of charge but reserva- tions are strongly recom- mended online via www. teatruaurora.com, by email teatruaurora@leone.org.mt or via the ticket helpline +356 79045779. Leone Band to present Ouvertures d'Operette tonight