THE MALTA INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL – WHERE MALTA BECOMES A BACKDROP FOR ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE

JUST IN TIME FOR THE SUMMER MONTHS, THE MIAF WILL FEATURE A WEEK-LONG CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS BETWEEN THE 16TH AND 25TH OF JUNE ACROSS VARIOUS HISTORICAL VENUES ON THE MALTESE ISLANDS.

Arts festivals are renowned worldwide for their multi-faceted events that feature diverse cultures and artistic disciplines. The Malta International Arts Festival is no different, featuring the crème de la crème of international artists and ensembles over the years. But what makes this festival truly unique is that it embraces historical venues around Malta with site-specific performances. The festival's audiences have had the unique opportunity of attending concerts in exclusive locations around the island, including the breath-taking Grand Harbour and Ħaġar Qim Temples, as well as intimate indoor venues within the capital city of Valletta.

This year, the festival boasts a stellar line-up of local and international artists across various disciplines, including music, visual arts, theatre, dance, community projects, and fashion, to name a few.

One of the highlights is the hurdy-gurdy virtuoso Guilhem Desq, who will be visiting the island for the first time to demonstrate his mastery of an old-world instrument commonly used during the mediaeval era. Desq breathes new life to the hurdy-gurdy, performing a variety of genres, including European folk, heavy metal, pop, and contemporary rock. To top it off, Desq will perform in Malta's national theatre, Teatru Manoel. Also at the Manoel is a recital by the country's national orchestra, the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, who will present, amongst other works, two major classical highlights: Piano Concerto No. 2 by Shostakovich, featuring Greek pianist Konstantinos Destounis, and Beethoven’s 6th Symphony The Pastorale

For those searching for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the 'Underground Valletta: In Concert' is must-see. Set beneath the Capital City, these concerts will give audiences a glimpse of the vast underground network of shelters and cisterns beneath this bustling city. This surreal venue will serve as a backdrop for two performances: ‘Glass Harmonica - Thomas Bloch’ and ‘PercussionLuís Bittencourt’. The intimate ambience and unique acoustics are the perfect ingredients for two unique experiences that are not to be missed.

Another event that has become a staple during the MIAF is the ‘Harbour Odyssey’, a musical-theatre performance on The Fernandes. The two-masted vessel will sail within the majestic Grand Harbour, which is considered one of the most beautiful ports of the Mediterranean. The audience will have the unique opportunity to experience a gorgeous sunset and admire the breath-taking views while enjoying a theatrical narrative inspired by the local legends and historical anecdotes. What more can you ask for?

If you're in Malta in June and want to visit unique venues, then the MIAF is your go-to festival. Not only does the festival introduce you to exquisite venues, but it also boasts a programme of events which champions artistic excellence.

For tickets and to view the entire programme, visit www.festivals.mt/miaf

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16-25 June 2023 festivals.mt/miaf

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