Sunday Circle Christmas Special Edition 2018

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

IRA LOSCO’S NEW VIDEOS Meet the creative director

GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS ASSAULT BATTLE OF THE DAMES MENTAL HEALTH Avoiding the seasonal madness

DANIEL AZZOPARDI

The blogger who shaped a scene

Fully-interactive digital edition.

Download TOM Mag from Apple Store or Google Play.

CONTENTS COVER STORY 10

CELEBS

THE BLOGGER WHO SHAPED A SCENE Daniel Azzopardi didn’t just burst onto the local influencer scene; he helped shape it. Just as the three-times Malta Fashion Awardwinning blogger is on the verge of launching his YouTube channel, Iggy Fenech catches up with him to find out what’s in store for 2019 and why speaking out against bullying and homophobia will always be high on his agenda.

20

HUMOUR 29

ISSUES

TURNING HIT SINGLES INTO FAB VIDEOS Ira Losco’s two new videos just hit the scene some days ago and the creative vision behind them is none other than Steven Levi Vella. He tells Iggy Fenech about his work with Malta’s pop princess and about his other collaborations with Malta’s top performers.

6 WAYS TO SURVIVE CHRISTMAS WITH THE FAM By Steve Hili

20 PEOPLE 54

C H R I S T M A S T H E AT R E 34 36 38 43

MADC’S MADAME: IT’S LADY FRAKASST By Jo Caruana TEATRU MALTA’S DAME MISS ĦUTA By Anna Marie Galea FM’S MRS NANNA KOLA By Jo Caruana HOW’S YOUR YEAR BEEN? The Comedy Knights give us a taster of what’s to come in their sixth show, and help us take a look at the trends that have taken Malta by storm over the last 12 months.

54

17 46 17

50

THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS ASSAULT Increased alcohol intake, late nights and crowded social occasions lead to a spike in sexual assault cases over the Christmas period. Director of Victim Support Malta Krista Tabone gives Maureen Saguna some timely advice about how best to keep ourselves safe.

GOING MENTAL OVER CHRISTMAS? Your mental wellbeing is more important than finding the right gifts for your loved ones and excelling at seasonal hosting.

Psychotherapist Danjela Falzon’s advice is on point.

THIS PUBLICATION IS BEING DISTRIBUTED AS PART OF:

UNFORGETTABLE, LIKE HIM Fresh from his debut performance at the world-famous Glyndebourne Opera House, tenor Nico Darmanin will be holding his first-ever big band swing concert in Malta. He tells Anabel Attard why he’s thrilled to be coming home for Unforgettable.

MEET OUR WINNERS! The launch of TOM Mag app brought some fantastic luck to these people, who each took part in our competitions! From an amazing holiday to Livigno, to €1,000 shopping from Scan and an array of branded goodies, they’re spending their Christmas enjoying some unexpected gifts.

REGULARS

43

04 06 08 62 64

A word from the editor C Body C Style C Living Paparazzi

Send your letters to: Ramona Depares, executive editor, Sunday Circle, Allied Newspapers Ltd, Mrieħel, or email: ramona.depares@timesofmalta.com. The executive editor reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and where space is limited. For advertising enquiries email: renee.mdecesare@timesofmalta.com or call: 9947 7193. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole, or in part, is strictly prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed in the Sunday Circle are not necessarily those of the editor-in-chief or publisher. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor-in-chief and publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome, but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor-in-chief is not responsible for material submitted for consideration.

A WORD FROM

the editor

For the second time this month, welcome to Sunday Circle. December is always particularly exciting, with two magazines coming out in such a short span of time.

Which means the whole team is in a tizzy, of course, stress levels to the max – but we’re also super thrilled, truth be told, because we love what we do and because nothing equals seeing the final, packaged magazine in hand, knowing that it will find its way into your living rooms, your coffee shops and your waiting rooms soon.

And now things have gotten double exciting. Knowing that the entire magazine, and more, is accessible with a mere click on my phone is pretty amazing. We really hope you’re just as excited as we are!

So here it is – Christmas. We have fun, we have fashion, we have fabulousness all around on this edition. Starting with our cover personality, the incomparable Daniel Azzopardi. I will confess to always having had a soft spot for Daniel, every since I discovered his fashion blog – mostly,

because it is so much more than a fashion blog.

Daniel is the perfect example that fashion doesn’t have to be shallow; and that yes, you can be fond of pretty things, of looking good, without stopping there.

Most of you are familiar with the incredible work that he has done within the spheres of bullying and LGBTQI rights. People like Daniel – down-to-earth, kind and with brains to sell – are exactly what is needed, so I do hope that you will enjoy Iggy Fenech’s interview with him.

It’s Christmas, which means we also have a tonne of shopping advice, and – drum roll please – the usual battle of the dames. Only, it’s not two Dames now, it’s three! Oh yes, and there’s also the entire cast of Comedy Knights to contend with.

Christmas theatre is great fun and this edition of the magazine really puts you into the spirit of things.

Speaking of comedy and theatre, Steve Hili returns with another hilarious

listicle – this time giving us his pro tips about coping with the family over the myriad lunches and social gatherings that tend to be organised. A word of caution: some of his advice may need to be taken with a pinch of salt.

But it’s not just fun and games.

Mental health remains a priority, given the fast and oftentimes lonely lifestyle that most of us tend to lead. Over the festive period, feelings of isolation can become more marked, which is why we chatted to a psychotherapist for her top tips about surviving Christmas with your sanity intact.

And, of course, we can’t ignore that assaults tend to escalate over the period, particularly sexual assaults over women.

We got the top person at Victim Support Unit to share some sound advice about how to best protect yourself and your loved ones.

Finally, I take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a serene season – see you in the new year!

DANIEL AZZOPARDI CAUGHT ON VIDEO - EXCLUSIVELY ON TOM MAG! Sunday Circle is back with extra content, extra interactivity and extra fun thanks to the new edition of our digital version, available for free via TOM Mag. This month, fashion blogger Daniel Azzopardi gives us an exclusive video interview and shares some super exciting news with his fans! You can also enjoy a hilarious video of what our Comedy Knights got up to behind the scenes of their print interview, as well as some truly stunning footage of Steven Levi Vella working on Ira Losco's videos.

There are also some fabulous competitions with prizes that are guaranteed to make your Christmas complete. Taking part is so easy, you don’t even need to send emails or use snail mail – just a click on the right button and you’re in with the chance to win. You know what you have to do, head over to TOM Mag App right now.

Meantime, if you are still unsure how to get to all the fabulous content, the TOM Mag digital app is available both through the Apple Store and Google Play. So, if you have not yet done so, simply download the TOM Mag App and click MAG on the Christmas edition of Sunday Circle. Enjoy! And if you’re social media freaks like us, follow us on Instagram by looking up @SundayCircleMag, and on Facebook!

TOM PHOTO: CARLTON AGIUS

PUBLISHER Allied Newspapers Ltd.

PUBLICATION SALES MANAGER Renée Micallef Decesare

COVER Daniel Azzopardi wearing Gagliardi available at Bortex Fine Tailoring. Photography: Carlton Agius

DESIGN Joseph Schembri

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Iggy Fenech, Ramona Depares, Anabel Attard, Maureen Saguna, Steve Hili and Danjela Falzon

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ramona Depares ASSISTANT EDITOR Iggy Fenech

4 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

DAV I D E T U CC I we a r i n g E D I F I C E

T. 212459 9 9 # S t e r ling G i f t ing

BODY 1. THE NEW GOOD GIRL EAU DE PARFUM 1

Carolina Herrera celebrates female empowerment with a breakthrough in perfumery: the Good Girl Eau de Parfum Légère.

“The radiance of this fragrance opens like a flower and resonates day and night. It does not impose; it adapts to our chameleonic personality while also paying tribute to daring and strong woman,” says perfumer Louise Turner. “‘Légère’ (light) is not a synonym for fresh here, however. This EDP is as intense as the previous one.” Carolina Herrera perfumes are exclusively distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd., Tel: 2133 1553.

2

2. A TIMELESS CLASSIC Since 1882, the refined, enchanting scent of Fougère Royale by Houbigant Parfum has underpinned the Fougère fragrance family. Recognisable by its verdant bouquet redolent of succulent fresh grasses, curled fronds and newly-cut hay, Fougère Royale never goes out of style. Houbigant fragrances are exclusively distributed by Chemimart, Tel: 2149 2212.

3. A SIMPLE WAY TO LONGER LASHES 3

Mavala’s Double-Lash contains a natural extract rich in vitamins and proteins that strengthens, covers and protects the lashes to make them longer, fuller and stronger. All you have to do is apply every night onto clean lashes! Ophthalmologically tested; fragrance and colourant free. Exclusively distributed by C+M Marketing Ltd, Tel: 2142 4079/80.

4

4. WIN A JEAN PAUL GAULTIER COLLECTOR’S EDITION PERFUME The annual Jean Paul Gaultier Christmas Collector is back! This year, Le Male and Classique wear a couple of dashing Christmas jumpers, which no other fragrance bottle can pull off with such style and panache. The bottles are encased in a magical Christmas snow globe making it the ornament to have on your mantelpiece this season. Win a 100ml bottle of Jean Paul Gaultier’s Christmas Collector of Le Male, worth €85, or Classique, worth €98, through the digital edition of Sunday Circle, which can be downloaded through the TOM Mag app. Jean Paul Gaultier perfumes are exclusively distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd, Tel: 2133 1553.

5. WIN QUELQUES FLEURS L’ORIGINAL Quelques Fleurs L’Original by Houbigant Parfum is an incomparable, compelling blend of ethereal, ambrosial, voluptuous flowers; a mix that honours the revolutionary, prestigious, multi-floral bouquet that premiered all across the globe in 1912. Win a 100ml bottle of this special perfume produced entirely out of fresh and pure essences, worth €132.35, through the digital edition of Sunday Circle, which can be downloaded through the TOM Mag app. Houbigant fragrances are exclusively distributed by Chemimart, Tel: 2149 2212.

6 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

5

STYLE

It won’t matter which foot you put forward when wearing these Burberry Timsbury Sneakers.

Define your waist with this eye-catching Dolce & Gabbana Logo Belt.

Be a vision in pink with this Burberry Tropical Gabardine Trench Coat

BRING LOVE HOME WITH GIFT-IDEAS FROM SARTO! Husband-and-wife duo, international model and former footballer David Camenzuli and fitness guru Leah, star in the luxury retailer’s 2018 Christmas campaign, along with their newborn bundle of joy, Sophia. This Christmas, Sarto promises to add a little more love thanks to its carefullycurated offering of sublime festive fashion – guaranteed to be the perfect surprise for your nearest and dearest, young and old, come Christmas morning. Discover the full collection at sarto.com.mt or in-store: SARTO, Ross Street, St Julian’s, Tel: 2202 1601.

Finish off your festive outfit with this textured Ermenegildo Zegna Pelle Tessuta Belt.

Carry all your essentials in this Moncler Dolomites Backpack.

Unleash their imagination with this Burberry Monster ThreePiece Gift Set (1-12 months).

Opt for luxury basics that will stand the test of time, like this Burberry William Check Cuff Poplin Shirt.

RE-DISCOVER THE BULOVA OCEANOGRAPHER

STYLISH SUNGLASSES FOR EVERYONE Discover the latest styles and looks for sunglasses at O’Hea, where some of the world’s most prestigious brands sit side-by-side. Have your pick from fashion brands like Tom Ford, Bvlgari, Céline, Loewe, Emilio Pucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Tod’s and Dsquared2, and spoil yourself or your loved ones this Christmas. And, if you can’t make your mind up, gift vouchers are available, too. O’Hea Opticians, 191 The Strand, Gzira, Tel: 2131 5590, Email: info@oheaopticians.com

8 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

Bulova has proudly launched a re-creation of its acclaimed 1970s Oceanographer. Inspired by the accurate, waterresistant timepieces Bulova had been supplying to the US military for years, the original watch designed for diving stated its water resistance on the dial as ‘666 feet’ rather than ‘200m’, which earned the timepiece its memorable nickname, ‘Devil Diver’. The Oceanographer also features an automatic date movement, black/red bezel, and black three-hand date dial marked with the legendary 666 feet.

RRP €699. For more information call 2137 8649.

COVER STORY

The blogger who shaped a scene DANIEL AZZOPARDI DIDN’T JUST BURST ONTO THE LOCAL INFLUENCER SCENE; HE HELPED SHAPE IT. JUST AS THE THREE-TIMES MALTA FASHION AWARD-WINNING BLOGGER IS ON THE VERGE OF LAUNCHING HIS YOUTUBE CHANNEL, IGGY FENECH CATCHES UP WITH HIM TO FIND OUT WHAT’S IN STORE FOR 2019 AND WHY SPEAKING OUT AGAINST BULLYING AND HOMOPHOBIA WILL ALWAYS BE HIGH ON HIS AGENDA. “It was a different time when I first started out,” Daniel tells Photography Carlton Agius Make-up Jennifer Dimech Location Su29 Boutique Hotel, Valletta

me as we leave the gorgeous Su29 hotel and walk towards a small coffeeshop, “we were all very excited and enthusiastic about what we wore and what we did then. But we were younger; we’ve grown up now.”

It may seem odd that Daniel is already reminiscing about the early days of his career as a blogger and influencer, yet, when one looks at how the scene has changed since he first joined it in 2012, it’s quite easy to see why. Daniel was among the first to blog about fashion in Malta, among the first to turn it into a full-time job, and has continued growing in popularity as the Internet forced influencers to change their tactics.

Now, the role of an influencer has always been somewhat controversial. The idea that some people can change the way others shop, look at a brand or even think just by being popular or curating their Instagram feed is not something everyone can swallow. But Daniel, who played a big role in creating the influencer culture in Malta, has certainly made the most of it.

“Social media has changed a lot, too, and, as influencers and bloggers, we need to react and keep up with the trends… We always have to think about what’s next and that’s been one of the key things of how I’m still here, I think.

Do I have mixed feelings about the Internet moving towards a point where the instant-gratification of a photo is more important than the well-thought content of a blog?

Definitely. But I don’t make the rules, I just have to follow them to survive.”

Truth is, however, that Daniel’s career started on a whim. Bored at his job as a visual merchandiser for a fashion company, he decided to start a blog on the side. The Internet

Tommy Hilfiger

back then was obsessed with blogs and with reading what people had to say about practically anything.

10 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

COVER STORY

“I don’t make the rules of the Internet, I just have to follow them to survive.”

Gagliardi available at Bortex Fine

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

11

COVER STORY

Tommy Hilfiger

“I focused on fashion because it’s always been my passion, but I think it was more my sense of humour that made the blog kick off.”

And kick off it did, earning him three Malta Fashion Awards for Best Blogger, a myriad of collaborations with the likes of Tommy Hilfiger and Gagliardi, over 30k likes on Facebook and 25k followers on Instagram.

“I’ve always tried to be an open book with my followers; I’ve always shared the good and the bad,” he adds. “I’ve also always believed that it’s about being real and about

“I’ve always tried to be an open book with my followers; I’ve always shared the good and the bad.”

mentioning what I go through whatever that may be.”

Among the topics Daniel speaks about are bullying and homophobia – and his voice travels quickly. Just two years ago, for

Award earlier this year, says. “Today, I try to be kinder and to explain what is wrong with their argument rather than just hurling insults back.”

Daniel’s own trials and tribulations with bullying and homophobia have been well documented by himself, and he’s covered everything from what it felt like to be gay in an all-boys secondary school in Gozo to the hate he inevitably gets from trolls on the Internet.

“For a job which people think constitutes nothing but posting pretty pictures and attending events, it can be really stressful,” he jokes. “But, in reality, it can feel like a cycle of

nothingness. I mean, sure, the milestones [such as reaching a new tier of following or getting a new collaboration] give you a high, but they’re rarely satisfying in the long run.

example, a video of his calling for Archbishop Charles Scicluna’s

“Early this year, in fact, I felt like I had lost my way as a

resignation over a position paper by the Maltese Catholic Church

blogger. Nothing made me happy anymore. I don’t assume people

claiming that the banning of conversion therapy would be

realised but, with my job being what it is, I had to continue posting.

‘discriminatory’ went viral and made national newspaper headlines.

That’s the problem with living on the Internet: if you’re gone for

“Looking back, I realise that the way I used to fight fire with

longer than a week, you’re irrelevant. And, yes, I know that may

fire and calling people out for their behaviour in a not-so-nice-way

sound silly to some, but me being away from the Internet without

may not have been the right way to go about it,” Daniel, who was

an explanation is like someone who has an office job not turning up

nominated for a JCI Contribution to Peace and Human Rights

to the office one morning for no reason. This is how I pay my bills,

12 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

COVER STORY

so I had to live with the pressure of posting things that didn’t drag my followers down for no reason while trying to figure out what I wanted in life.”

The answer to that would come when a mother of a young follower went up to Daniel and opened up about her son coming out to her and mentioning the blogger in the process.

“It grounded me like nothing else before,” he tells me. “I often write and say things, and I obviously hope people notice, but I never thought I could make such a difference in someone’s life – someone I had never met or even spoken to! It was then I realised what was truly important about what I do and it reminded me of why I loved doing it in the first place… I have a responsibility to others and it can’t just be about me. Moreover, I also realised that my own happiness comes around by helping others and making them happy.”

Now, as 2018 comes to a close, Daniel is gearing up for the New Year, with some big plans for his brand and career: “I’m starting a YouTube channel,” he reveals. “In this, I’ll be talking about fashion, travelling, hauls, likes and dislikes, of course, but I also want to continue addressing the realities I have faced and which others face due to bullying and homophobia.

“I think adding the element of video – the human element of seeing someone talking rather than just reading a status – is incredibly important, particularly when discussing issues that affect so many at such a deep level.”

But, before all that, there’s one of Daniel’s favourite times of the year coming up…

Christmas!

“Christmas will be spent in Gozo with my mum, Maggie, who has been my rock from before I knew I needed a rock. Without her I definitely wouldn’t have made it to this point and I love spending the holidays with her, and with our two dogs, Sandy and Perla. It will be a traditional one for us, too, with lunch at home and then a stroll in Xlendi or Victoria… Unlike social media, I think Christmas is best left the way it’s always been,” he concludes.

Follow Daniel on Instagram, @itsdanielazzopardi.

Charles&Ron

14 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

SEASONAL CRIMES

The ghost of Christmas assault INCREASED ALCOHOL INTAKE, LATE NIGHTS AND CROWDED SOCIAL OCCASIONS LEAD TO A SPIKE IN SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES OVER THE CHRISTMAS PERIOD. DIRECTOR OF VICTIM SUPPORT MALTA KRISTA TABONE GIVES MAUREEN SAGUNA SOME TIMELY ADVICE ABOUT HOW BEST TO KEEP OURSELVES SAFE. When we think of Christmas time, images of twinkling lights, gift-

festivities. VSM is an NGO that offers support to victims of all

giving and all-round cheer come to mind, but it is also a fact that

crime, but they specialise in supporting victims of crimes of a

party season is a time when personal safety can be particularly

sexual nature, so I was curious to learn from an expert in the area

under threat. The increase in socialising and alcohol consumption

how to keep myself and my daughters as safe as possible.

means that, every year, there is also an increase in crimes like rape and sexual assault during this period.

I meet with Krista Tabone, director of Victim Support Malta (VSM), to discuss ways to keep safe during the upcoming

Krista kicks off the session by stating that the victim is never responsible for an attack, no matter how flirty, scantily-dressed or intoxicated they are. Responsibility always lies with the attacker, which is easy to forget when society has a tendency to blame

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

17

SEASONAL CRIMES

If you feel like you might be in danger, scream, wave your arms, attract as much attention to yourself as you can

There is more safety in numbers – try not to end up walking alone after a night out.

PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

the victim instead of focusing on the

even sound a siren from her phone while

assault. Moreover, if you are at a party

perpetrator.

messaging a chosen contact asking for

and feel threatened by someone, move

help. Remember that an app is of little

closer to an exit or phone someone.

we should not do our utmost to take

use if your phone is not charged, so

Finally, if all else fails and you have no

precautions and to maximise our safety.

making sure it is always charged is also

other option, make a fuss. If you feel like

Her first suggestion is to use one of the

very important.

you might be in danger, make noise.

This, of course, does not mean that

Another crucial thing to keep in

many ‘safety’ applications that are

Scream, wave your arms, attract as much

available for download on mobile phones.

mind is that there is strength in numbers,

attention to yourself as you can.

The one Krista uses enables her to send

and being with one or more friends is

Attention is the last thing a potential

her location to a chosen friend, and it can

likely to present a deterrent against

perpetrator wants.

18 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

SEASONAL CRIMES

What about helping others who might be in danger? Apart from sticking together at parties and events, the single most important tip Krista believes in is not being afraid to speak up. She says that,

The victim is never responsible for an attack, no matter how flirty, scantilydressed or intoxicated they are

unfortunately, here in Malta, we prefer not

guilty, feeling that they must obey their

Krista reminds me that the number is

to interfere in situations that don’t concern

aggressor if they truly love him.

conservative. Contrary to what most

us, prefering to be discreet. This is

One of the most important things to

believe, the majority of perpetrators are

obviously something that Krista and her

remember is that everyone has a right to

people the victim knows, but most of the

team feel strongly about, and she makes a

change their mind, even if they previously

victims who seek help from VSM have

point to repeat it to me many times. She

agreed to a sexual act. It is their right to

been assaulted by strangers or

insists that, if people do notice someone in

change their mind and ask for the other

acquaintances. That means that there are

a situation which might become

person to stop. Krista feels that this is one

many other cases, namely of victims of

dangerous, keeping in mind the CARE

of the most vital points we need teach our

family members, friends or a partner, which

system as acronym is of help.

children and that they need to be better

go unreported.

The word represents four simple

It would be tempting to feel like

educated as to what is acceptable and

steps that could prevent someone from

what is not. She explains that a talk by an

nowhere is safe or, conversely, throw all

being assaulted. C stands for Create a

NGO once a year will not cement the

caution to the wind thinking that these

distraction; A is Ask the person if they are

necessary information in a child’s brain –

things would never happen to us. However,

okay; R stands for Refer to authorities, be

repetition is key.

sexual assault has always existed and

it the police or the management of the

As for VSM, the victims they help

probably always will. So, charge your

place; and E is for Enlist the help of others,

vary from those blacking out on a night

phone, download an app, stick to a friend

like your friends, the friends of the

out and waking up naked in an unfamiliar

and don’t be afraid to scream at the top of

potential perpetrator or that of other

place, to victims of child abuse seeking

your lungs if you feel threatened. If it turns

bystanders.

psychological support after years of

out that your gut instinct was wrong,

keeping it a secret. When asked why it

blame the excitement of the holiday

the crime has been committed, time is of

takes some victims decades to speak up,

season. Better be safe than sorry.

the essence. The first thing to do is to get

Krista says that the most common reasons

to a safe place. It is also a priority that the

tend to be shame, guilt feelings and fear.

victim gets to hospital as quickly as

The fact that society tends to point the

social work services, psychological

possible, without eating, drinking, relieving

finger at the victim’s behaviour or clothing,

services, legal representation/consultation

themselves or cleaning themselves in any

rather than the aggressor’s actions,

and liaison with hospital and the police

way. Once at the hospital, the victim will be

certainly doesn’t help.

support and to victims of sexual assault

If the unthinkable does happen and

given a check up and, should they want to press charges against their aggressor, the

I am surprised to learn that VSM get as many as 30 new cases each year, but

Victim Support Malta provides free

and rape. The team is on call 24/7 and can be reached by calling Mater Dei Hospital.

police will then get involved. Victims are entitled to all the help they might need, including medical, legal and psychological support.

That being said, being assaulted while out at a party is not the only or the most common type of sexual aggression.

Many are repeatedly assaulted by their own partner, and some even by a colleague or a relative. Krista explains that many who are assaulted by someone close to them are manipulated by the perpetrator into feeling guilty or responsible for the latter’s well-being or feelings. It is common for these victims to be led to believe that their aggressor will hurt himself or commit suicide if they do not comply to his requests. Some are also made to feel

Drinking too much when you are alone in a club will make you more vulnerable – try to keep a trusted friend around you.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

19

CELEBS

Turning hit singles into fab videos IRA LOSCO’S TWO NEW VIDEOS JUST HIT THE SCENE SOME DAYS AGO AND THE CREATIVE VISION BEHIND THEM IS NONE OTHER THAN STEVEN LEVI VELLA. HE TELLS IGGY FENECH ABOUT HIS WORK WITH MALTA’S POP PRINCESS AND ABOUT HIS OTHER COLLABORATIONS WITH MALTA’S TOP PERFORMERS.

The list of productions Steven Levi Vella’s worked on is long and

create a package to be presented to the world in a way that

impressive, with some of Malta’s best-known singers entrusting him

audiences and fans would understand or connect with,” he says.

with the vision for their music. Among these is a credit as the

“That includes everything from location and props to clothes, and the

creative director of Christabelle’s Malta Eurovision Song Contest

artist’s public persona to their vision for the song or project at hand.”

performance for Taboo, as well as being part of the team involved in

That sounds simple enough but, as Steven continues to explain,

the creation of the music video and live performance of the song at

there’s more that goes into it: “This is a process and not simply a one-

Eurovision. Then there is also a creative director-credit for Davina

off thing. With Ira Losco, Christabelle and Maxine [Pace, who is

Pace’s video for Perfectly, and another one for the music video for

currently working towards her upcoming album launch], the actual

Untouchable, a song by the Kelly Schembri-and-KJ-London-based-

work was preceded by numerous meetings where they and I went

duo, Monroe, which was picked up by four international labels.

through the music, the lyrics, why and how they relate to the song,

But what does that mean in reality? What does a creative director do?

“My job is to compose a symphony out of what the management and artists bring to the table for the visuals, and then

20 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

and what the message to their fans was. And that’s the crux of it… As a creative director, you have to be the artist’s fan and their conscience; you literally have to put yourself in their shoes in order to understand the pain or joy the song gives them.”

CELEBS

Ira Losco, Fortune Teller

On top of giving a nod to the singer’s 2008 album Fortune Teller, the tarot cards lay the foundations for what Ira’s character in the two music videos – that of good girl gone bad – encounters

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

21

CELEBS

“Once you get to know Ira, the 15 years’ worth of presuppositions and narratives built around her melt away to reveal the human being we often look past; the raw artist that has given us so much wonderful music.”

Yet Steve hasn’t always worked in music videos – he actually started out as a fashion and art photographer, with controversial and lauded exhibitions, such as PORN and Black Porn, giving him quite the ‘bad boy’ reputation on the local photography scene. But, although this

the No Sinner part of the album and ‘Bad

remains one of his passions, music videos

Habits’ from the No Saint side, took months

character in the two music videos – that of

give him something nothing else does: “I

of preparations.

good girl gone bad – encounters.

find the adrenaline of creating three

“We started out with two potential

cards lay the foundations for what Ira’s

Among the most memorable of these

beautiful minutes of moving image to be

singles,” Steven explains. “Working together,

symbols is the mermaid, which, in the olden

infectious.”

we looked at ways we could translate the

days, was believed to lure unsuspecting

And that was certainly true about two of his most recent collaborations with Ira

songs into visuals and this is where

sailors to their death; and the snake, the

symbolism became very important.”

international symbol of two-facedness. All of

Losco, who is currently promoting her new

The story for both videos lies in a deck

this comes together to tell the story of a

double-album, No Sinner/No Saint. Her

of tarot cards. On top of giving a nod to the

woman who is fed up with society

double video, which bridged ‘Hey Now’ from

singer’s 2008 album Fortune Teller, the tarot

determining the parameters of what she

22 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

CELEBS

should and shouldn’t do by

Steven Levi Vella

reclaiming her autonomy and

PHOTO: STEFAN BALZAN

for the artist to connect with the viewers and audience – sometimes in just a few minutes – makes it a

power.

completely different ball game.

“This is the ‘hybrid’ which

“For live performances, we

the fortune teller speaks of in the video,” Steve continues. “Ira is the

need to find a way for the lighting,

hybrid because she is Ira ‘the

colour scheme, the (few) props,

person’ and Ira ‘the star’. And

the clothes, the people on stage,

that came from one thing that I

and even the angles the camera

personally experienced with the

captures the scene in, help the

pop star: that once you get to

artist deliver their message in a

know her, the 15 years’ worth of

way that can be understood and

presuppositions and narratives

related to. That’s obviously trickier

built around her melt away to

than filming because there’s no

reveal the human being we often

take two once you go live, but

look past; the raw artist that has

that’s all part of the fun.”

And it’s great that Steven

given us so much wonderful

loves what he does as his list of

music.”

upcoming projects is as grand as

People and life have always been the inspiration behind

the one of completed jobs. Just

Steven’s work. Indeed, two

over the first few months of 2019,

personal life stories from the past

in fact, he’s got projects with Ira,

year have completely changed

Christabelle and Maxine lined up,

his view on life and his work: one

as well as others away from our

was becoming an uncle, and the

shores, that include new videos,

other was losing an uncle to

album launches, and live

cancer.

performances.

“Life can throw so much at

“I feel absolutely honoured

us that it’s not always easy to

that I get to help turn these great

deal with it all,” he says.

artists’ work into visuals that

“Watching someone fighting a

communicate feelings to

battle with cancer truly changed

audiences,” he concludes… And,

my view of the world and how we should be

do it: the colours, the ideas, the emotions

with so much left in store as all these

grateful for what we have and the people in

tackled…”

exciting projects materialise, I guess all we

our lives. But life can also be funny in the

Another side of Steven’s work is

sense that, as I lost an uncle, I also became

staging for live performances, with

one for the first time when Jeremiah was

Christabelle’s Isle of MTV 2018 cameo being

born… That’s affected what I do and how I

one of them. Here, he tells me, finding a way

Maxine

24 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

have to do is stay tuned for the next Steven Levi Vella creation! www.stevenlevivella.com

Christabelle

HUMOUR

6 ways to survive Christmas with The Fam

BY STEVE HILI

Christmas! The most wonderful time of the year. And nobody does Christmas quite like the Maltese. From contorted Santa Claus figures hanging from balconies, to 2am fry-ups washed down with

6. Remember they’re not your bros or your oħts We’ve all got friends we can be completely at ease with.

mulled wine, via awful renditions of Last Christmas on afternoon

Friends we can get drunk with, swear at, and who are used to us

telly, Maltese Christmases are, well, unique.

prank-calling their mums. But (siblings and maybe a couple of

And at the heart of all this there is, of course, the family

cousins aside) family, is different. Especially the extended bunch.

gathering. That extra-special occasion where people whom you

These are people with whom you did not choose to be connected,

spend most of the year actively avoiding, are all crammed into one

and who did not choose to be connected to you. So, no, no matter

room, given food and drink and ordered, by societal pressures, to

how much she is smiling manically at you, do not tell your spinster

have fun.

aunty that joke about the cucumber. She will not appreciate it.

Let’s be honest, even with the best of intentions, family gatherings – from the over-the-top Christmas lunch to the cherry brandy on boxing day at your great-aunt’s house – do not always

5. Don’t get political Political debate has got a bad reputation. This is unfortunate

live up to the beautiful expectations set for us by Christmas

because a well thought out, logical debate can literally be a world-

movies. And, even when they do, they are they are much less

changing thing.

Miracle on 34th street and much more Die Hard.

But that isn’t going to happen tonight. Not with your mother-

And when that happens it is very easy for your inner Grinch

in-law’s second cousin Josephine. Not when she is on her twelfth

to find his way out, and ruin everything. So, in the spirit of giving,

vodka coke and is wearing a jumper that she bought for the 1992

here are six ways to help you survive the festivities with the family…

general election. The one with that MP’s face on it.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

29

HUMOUR

4. Save yourself When the questions start coming thick and fast, you need to be selfish. Don’t want nosey relatives asking about why your car was outside the STD clinic? Bring up your sister’s exam results.

Want to deflect conversation away from the time you were in court this year? Talk about your brother’s browsing history.

Feel a question coming on about how much you earnt this year? Segue into how you bumped into your cousin’s ex and just how happy she looked.

Yes, it is selfish, but at Christmas it is every man for himself.

3. Honesty is over-rated A feature of family gatherings in my teenage years would always be overzealous elders cornering me and questioning me about my girlfriend or lack thereof. That I was already at the grand old age of 14 and was still partner-less was considered to be major worry in the family. The possibility of a summit was mentioned.

And then, one day, more out of desperation than anything else, I lied. Told them I was seeing someone.

And just like that, they stopped.

It did take me another couple of years to actually bring a girl to one of these events, so in the meantime I just made the lies more elaborate. Faking a phone call or buying yourself a ring is much easier than you’d think.

2. Plan your escape Know what time you are leaving. And always have an excuse prepared. Get a friend to call you at a pre-arranged time (bonus points if they can sound distressed, that way you can ‘accidentally’ hit speaker phone for half a second). If leaving early is impossible (think Christmas day lunch) plan a walk. Like, a really, long twohour walk.

1. Do not get too hammered The tendency can be to get drunk in order to get through these occasions. And, while a bit of booze can lubricate things quite nicely, it can also lead to situations that spiral out of control. Like

Don’t want nosey relatives asking about why your car was outside the STD clinic?

Bring up your sister’s exam results

agreeing to meet up again in the near future. You have been warned.

BONUS: Find ways to enjoy it Find a release mechanism. I enjoy moving all the pasturi about on the family crib. Seeing a cow on an angel’s back, or the għaġeb being held aloft by that kid with the water, makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Find innocent ways to bring other people in as well. A silly joke, a sprout-eating contest or if you are feeling brave enough a carol singing session Yes, the presents might be all wrong. Yes, they might have

Connected to this is knowing when to take control of the

the innate ability to make you feel like banging your head against

conversation. Especially if logic and debating skills are not family

the Turkey. Yes, they might have eaten the last mince pie. But,

strengths. As soon as you feel that the discussion is getting

probably through no choice of theirs or yours, they do kind of love

dangerously close to the upcoming MEP campaign change the topic

you. And you at least like them.

to something else. But make sure it is something that matters. I find

A bit.

that the horrors of a carb-free diet always elicit mass response.

Merry Christmas everyone!

30 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

THEATRE

3 Dames and a Comedy Knight Christmas means Panto, and Panto means Dames. Which is already a good recipe for giggles. For the past handful of years, however, an extra pinch of trouble has been added to the mix in the shape of a renegade group of comedians that make up the Comedy Knights.

Which means only one thing – we have had to expand the usual Battle of the Dames to include some errant Knights too! This year we have FM Theatre’s Nanna Kola, MADC’s Lady Frakasst, Teatru Malta’s Miss Ħuta and some rather less-than-chivalrous Knights.

Intrepid interviewers Jo Caruana, Iggy Fenech and Anna Marie Galea braved a one-on-one with the most likely suspects in all productions to give us a hilarious taste of what to expect from some of Malta’s best actors and comedians this Christmas.

Flip these pages to meet the biggest, lewdest, naughtiest and funniest of them all.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

33

THEATRE

Michael Mangion as Lady Frakasst.

PHOTOS: SEBIO AQUILINA

34 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

THEATRE

MADC’s Madame: It’s Lady Frakasst

Are you the best dressed of the three?

My fashion is inspired by my nightclub job so there’s a bit of bling mixed with farmyard chic. When choosing my clothes, I look for practicality, durability and easy-access.

What’s a typical day-in-the-life of Lady Frakassat?

I wake up when my eyes open, I then check on Jack to make sure he stays out of trouble (which takes up most of the day), traipse around the village looking for Mr Right or Mr Rightnow, and then go to work and repeat.

What three things would you take with you on a desert island?

A good brush (I have wildly unmanageable hair), our cow (for milk and company) and the Brexit report (to

BY JO CARUANA As a woman who knows what she wants, Lady Frakasst – the dame in this year’s MADC panto Jack and the

help me sleep).

What are you hoping for this Christmas?

That my Jack won’t get into any more trouble… but

Beanstalk who is not so much a real lady as a lady of the

I would also like a waistline and everlasting true love. Oh,

night – has one thing on her mind: money. She puts her

and a few mince pies wouldn’t go amiss.

hopes in her son Jack – but he’s too busy trying to become a famous knight (so he can win the maiden of his dreams). When tragedy strikes and their village is attacked by giants, Jack has to step up to the plate and save the day – but can he? Lady Frakasst certainly hopes

Without giving anything away, what’s your favourite line of dialogue?

I can’t say because it’s been cut. We suddenly remembered there’ll be children watching.

so… especially if there’s a chance he could pick up some riches on his merry way….

Who is your celebrity crush?

Tom Jones, Engelbert Humperdinck and Freddie

Lady Frakasst, which Christmas panto will be the

Portelli (I obviously have a type).

best this year?

Honestly, what a question! I guarantee that Jack and the Beanstalk is a panto that will grow on you. It will be a giant of a show and the best you’ve ever bean to.

What piece of advice would you give to your audiences?

Sit up, switch your phones off, participate, don’t be late, relax and have fun. It’s not Shakespeare guys.

What three words describe you best?

Sassy, motherly and really, really loud!

Which dame would win in a fight?

Well, I know Nanna Kola is physically bigger than

Who are your role models?

me so it depends what kind of fight we get into. To be

Cher, Angela Merkel and Nena from the grocer’s

honest I have more pressing things to worry about right

shop down the road. I’ll tell you what, you don’t mess

now than getting into cat-fights. My rent has gone up

with Nena...

again this month and that son of mine is always surprising me with a new problem.

What can you do that the other dames cant?

I’m full of energy throughout the night, if you know

Jack and the Beanstalk will be performed at MFCC

what I mean, but don’t ask for me during the day. Anzi,

Ta’ Qali at 7.30pm on December 23; December 26 till 30

Alla ħares you even look at me during the day. I’m also a

December; and January 3 to 5.

dab hand at milking a cow.

www.madc.com.mt.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

35

THEATRE

Teatru Malta’s Dame Miss Ħuta

BY ANNA MARIE GALEA As colourful as his wit is clever, Chucky Bartolo is no stranger to

“I have to trust the audience to come up with their own

the stage. With a personality as big as his drag queen persona’s

image of me from what they hear. I can’t depend on my hair and

hair, his choice to take on the role of dame in a panto which will

makeup to carry me through or my overly expressive face. Since

be held completely in the dark is an unexpected, yet extremely

I’m not going to be on stage, it was a process of unlearning all

interesting, one. I spoke to him about how much his drag queen

that I’ve learnt because all everyone is going to have to rely on is

persona has in common with Miss Ħuta and whether Tolqueen’s

my voice. I’m wondering how my singing is going to sound

hair really is full of secrets.

because I’d rather not deafen anyone.”

“I’ve been doing drag unofficially since sixth form,” Chucky laughs. “Suffice to say, some of the faculty weren’t too impressed

Of course, many people who have already seen Chucky in action as star drag queen Tolqueen might think that his role as

with my first foray, however, I seem to have had some form of

dame will be a mere extension of Tolqueen, however, Chucky

impact on my friend Vikesh Godhwani (one of the writers and co-

reassures us that it is not the case: “Tolqueen and Miss Ħuta

directors of Gawgaw: A Panto in the Dark) because when he came

could truly not be more different. While Tolqueen has a love of

up with the idea together with Marta Vella, he instantly phoned

men and a reluctantly nice side, Miss Ħuta is much more in your

me and asked me if I would want to take part. This phone call

face, character-wise, and has something of a more aggressive

from an old friend happened in February and its November now

and cut and dry way about her.

so you could say I carried this baby to term.”

Speaking of babies, Dame Miss Ħuta is primarily different

“They both have that nicely trashy edge where they wore one ring too many but the dame is fully a character created by

from other dames because she is quite a bit younger than one

someone else. Indeed, it is a challenge to not be Tolqueen when I

would expect.

am performing but I think I’m winning the fight. For me, it’s all

“I know everyone says this about their role, but she is. She’s

about making a character memorable and since no one is going

a teacher but not by choice. She is very young yet a maternal role

to have a visual image of me, my voice is going to have to do all

has been thrust on her. She wants to be a good sister to her

the work. Visually-impaired people have a heightened sense of

brother but at the same time, she really wants to do her own

sound so I’m really paying attention to all the nuances of my

thing. She’s one of those women who love the modern diet trend

own voice.”

so if someone tells her to cut out GMOs (or any other letters of the alphabet for that matter), she will cut them out of her diet

Although pantos are usually defined by colour and sound, Dame Miss Ħuta is adamant that this version will offer audiences

without really knowing why. She’s a vegetarian who will dabble in

a magical sensory experience. “This panto really is a show for

fish as long as it’s glucose and lactose-free!”

absolutely everyone; however, the audience is being invited to

The irony is that no one will actually be able to see Dame Miss Ħuta in the flesh so to speak.

“This is possibly the very first production of its kind. It’s going

experience it from the point of view of someone who is not able to see. You’re getting the full experience in a different way; after all, there isn’t just one way to see the world. It’s so exciting to

to be held at Esplora, so that the audience really do get a sense of

me that all these different people will have all these dissimilar

the darkness that the visually impaired experience. In fact, all the

ideas and images of our characters based on what they are

people showing the audience to their places are visually impaired

hearing. I suppose it shows you how little appearances truly

themselves. The entire panto will take place via headset. “As you

matter.”

can imagine, this was a huge challenge for me. I’m so visual and image-based in the way that I am that people not being able to see me is going to be challenging. If there’s something that I’ve learnt from this panto it’s to let go of some of my control.

36 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

Gawgaw: Panto in the Dark takes place from December 18 to 23 at Esplora Planeterium Hall, Kalkara. www.teatrumalta.org.mt

THEATRE

A vegetarian who will dabble in fish as long as it’s glucose and lactose-free

Chucky Bartolo as Dame Miss Ħuta PHOTOS: ELISA VON BROCKDORFF

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

37

THEATRE

FM’s Mrs Nanna Kola

BY JO CARUANA

Edward Mercieca as Nanna Kola.

PHOTOS: JUSTIN MAMO

Although she may have spent some of her life looking up at everyone else,

What three words best describe you,

Nanna Kola – the dame in FM Theatre’s

I have to admit it’s probably one of the other two. I am just a humble werker –

Nan? Big, brash and busty.

panto at the beautiful Teatru Manoel – is

although my clothes are amazingly colourful, tasteless and garish. I have to

not to be messed with. This merry lady is

Who is your role model?

nanny to Sleeping Beauty herself, the

Queen Latifa, Dolly Parton and Mae

lovely Aurora. She’s sweet and lovely…

West. I want to be exactly like them. On

but don’t cross her! She will do

the flip side, I absolutely don’t want to be

absolutely anything to protect her charge

like any Maltese politicians. I want to be

from danger and, frankly, we’re a little

their exact opposite! Jaaaq x’initiena!

worried that that might involve sitting on

admit der is nuttink posh about me!

What’s a typical day-in-the-life of Nanna Kola?

Faċendi biss, qalbi, dejjem bil-cutex mqaxxar cos I do the hawswerk. And, of course, I look after our little princess

you…

What can each of you do that the

Aurora.

other dames cannot?

Weigh 115kilos in my birthday suit!

Nanna Kola, whose Christmas panto will be the best this year?

Ajma mhux ovvja, qalbi... the one that people enjoy most! Heqqq!

What three things would you take with you on a desert island?

Which of you three is the bestdressed?

38 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

A man, another man and a favourite toy of mine which works on solar

THEATRE

If music be the food of love, play on! Also, someone said that it’s like eating pizza, and I love pizza powered batteries! You know what Shakespeare said: “If music be the food of love, play on!” and I love playing. Also someone also said that it’s like eating pizza, and I love pizza!

What are you hoping for this Christmas?

A man, another man and a special toy that works on solar powered batteries.

Without giving anything away, what’s your favourite line of dialogue?

Immorru Lew! Who are your celebrity crushes?

Adrian Muscat and Joseph Delia.

What piece of advice would you give to your audiences?

Enjoy life, take care of the environment and never, but never, suffer fools gladly, tajjeb hekk? Jew as de hippies used to say, peace, love and rock n roll, baby!

Who would win in a fight?

You mean fiżikal, like Olivia-Pukedon-John? U ajma what sort of stupid question is dett, all I have to do is naqbeż fuq il-kaxxa ta sidru... il-lummy, lanqas he will get up! Now darling daqshekk, għax I have to go and make myself beautiful and that takes about 31.764 hours. Ciao għal issa. Hugs and many oscillations!

FM Theatre Productions presents Sleeping Beauty at the Teatru Manoel, Valletta, on December 23; December 26 to 30 and January 2 to 6. www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

40 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

We Buy and Sell Luxury Watches Pre-owned Rolex & Patek Philippe Specialist (Free Consultation) All our watches are sold with original guarantee and certiďŹ cates.

45, Zachary Street, Valletta | Tel: +356 2124 5677 | www.swcmalta.com

THEATRE

HOW’S YOUR YEAR BEEN? THE COMEDY KNIGHTS HAVE CREATED THEIR UNIQUE WAY OF LOOKING AT MALTA AND THE MALTESE. HERE, IN A SATIRICAL, HIGH-END FASHION SHOOT-STYLE SPREAD, THEY GIVE US A TASTER OF WHAT’S TO COME IN THEIR SIXTH SHOW, LET’S TALK ABOUT SIX!, AND HELP US TAKE A LOOK AT THE TRENDS THAT HAVE TAKEN MALTA BY STORM OVER THE LAST 12 MONTHS. Artistic Direction & Styling Iggy Fenech Photography & Editing Bernard Polidano Make-up Natasha Polidano Hair Noella and Eve @ Dean Gera Salons With special thanks to Elaine Bugeja and Máta Hati

SLIEMA GIRLS THE SLIEMA GIRLS TAKE THE SOUTH! From Font Għadir to Fontini ta’ Feliċ

PROTESTING ys! The choice to protest about nowada There are so many things , Donald bal warming, rule of law is endless! Corruption, glo ee shop, coff r ste hip xit, the rise of the Trump, construction, Bre about? t tes ’t decide what to pro lack of Nutella biscuits. Can hit the streets, ! Grab your banners and Protest about everything or else it’s like it about it on social media but make sure you post t some people so good at protesting, tha didn’t happen). Malta is clear away to , and there’s no need protest the protesters! Oh ly provides its t as the government kind anything after the protes service free of charge! own overnight clear-away alo; shoes, d jacket from Parascand Chris Dingli: Multicoloure list’s own. jeans, top and T-shirt, sty list’s own. alo Parascand ; jeans, sty Wesley Ellul: Hoodie from list’s own.

Parascandalo; jeans, sty Fallen Protestor: Cape from Props: Stylist’s own.

, Sliema Girls are on the move, but always looking good. After befriending the Bormla Babes last year anything can happen, especially as rental prices in Sliema have skyrocketed. Bepp e and Jeremy are now also facing charges of money laundering in Panama. Bex can’t believe they would even go to a laund ry: “Mhux they have a maid?” she was heard asking.

“Which way to Bormla, hun?”

“Bormla? Isn’t that what the old peop le use

to cook the

brodu?”

“No, that’s a cooker.”

“U ejja?”

“Mela!”

“I hear Bormla is up-and-coming.”

“Like Jeremy last night?”

Jo Caruana: Poncho, jeans and glove s from Armani Exchange.

Pia Zammit: Dress and coat from Arma ni Exchange.

Props: Art bags in silver, red and black from Armani Exchange; the rest, stylist’s own.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

43

THEATRE

THE NEWS

news news? U mela, let the bad Laughing in the face of bad about ry else’s problem]! Don’t wor pile up; it’s SEP [someone even helps if you want. Sometimes, it it. You can block it all out ing. No blems; it’s better than cry to laugh at the world’s pro ? If life say we t . Do you know wha one likes a cry baby, anyway m the h pers, build a tower wit gives you a pile of newspa te Invi m!

Try playing Jenga with the (everyone loves a tower!) truction and ries about corruption, des friends over and turn sto istmas!

Chr this me holiday fun construction into wholeso ani sweater and shirt from Arm Thomas Camilleri: Jeans, own.

Exchange; socks, stylist’s from : Jeans, top and turtleneck Chantelle Micallef Grimaud . stylist’s own Armani Exchange; socks, . own s Props: Stylist’

TREES The apocalypse is com ing, but that’s no reason to not look your best! As we cut down all the trees and soon will end up with no clean oxygen to breathe we can , at least, all still enjoy the Jan uary sales, Black Friday and the limited edition ‘retrostyle’ oxygen masks. All together now, let’s rais e our hands and cry to the heavens, “Why is that guy from TV cutting down my potted plant? And where is he off to in his dinner jacket?

Wait, is it New Year’s Eve ?”

Marc Cabourdin: Suit and

jumper from Armani Exc hange; shoes stylist’s own.

Colin Fitz: Tuxedo and

shoes, stylist’s own.

Props: Stylist’s own.

The Comedy Knights’ Let’s Talk About Six! will take place between December 26 and January 13 (bar December 31 and January 1, 7, 8, 9) at Teatru Salesjan in Sliema. The show is produced by Wesley Ellul, Chris Dingli and Marc Cabourdin. www.comedyknights.com

44 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

www.demajowinesandspirits.com

COMPETITIONS

Meet our winners IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY THAT WE WERE INTRODUCING MALTA’S FIRST DIGITAL INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE. NOW, AS THE FOURTH EDITION OF SUNDAY CIRCLE HITS THE TOM MAG APP NEWSSTAND, IGGY FENECH CATCHES UP WITH THE FIRST FIVE WINNERS OF OUR DIGITAL COMPETITIONS.

STEPHANIE ZAHRA, 28, won a trip for two to Livigno – including flights and accommodation – worth over €1,000, thanks to FCM Travel!

“I’ve always liked Sunday Circle and its articles so, when I saw that there was a new, digital version of it, I decided to download it. The extra content – videos, images and competitions – caught my eye immediately, and I love the fact that I can always have it with me for when have a minute to read a bookmarked article.

“I entered the competition on a whim, though. In fact, I didn’t expect to win at all… Now I’m going to Livigno with my husband! I couldn’t believe it but, amazing!”

DOREEN CURMI de GRAY, 54, won over €114 worth of YSL make-up thanks to Chemimart Group!

“Reading’s always been one of my passions and it’s great to have a magazine that I can have with me wherever I go. In fact, it’s now my weapon of choice against boredom when I’m stuck in a queue or waiting to be called in for an appointment. I feel like I can really enjoy the magazine now and it feels like it lasts longer as I can read it at my own pace. I hope we’ll get more magazines on the app soon; it’s just fabulous.

“The content’s great, too, and I don’t just mean the articles: The behindthe-scenes videos with the cover stars, and the interactive digital adverts, really help bring it all to life! I’m so glad I downloaded it and I keep telling my family and friends to do the same!”

46 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

COMPETITIONS

Gabriella Theuma, Michela Catania, Nicole Formosa, Doreen Curmi de Gray and Stephanie Zahra

“As for the competition, well I just entered it for fun as it’s super easy to take part – just answer a couple of easy questions, enter some details and you’re in! Having said that, I was quite stunned when I received the phone call!”

GABRIELLA THEUMA, 21, won a bottle of Velvet Fatale – the collector’s edition of Good Girl Eau de Parfum by Caroline Herrera – worth €115, thanks to Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery!

“I found out about the digital version of Sunday Circle on social media and decided to give it a go… And there are so many benefits to it! I mean, it’s so easy to navigate through the contents and go straight to the articles I’m interested in! I quite like the health-related ones, in fact, such as the ones about psoriasis and heart failure, as they’re important things to be aware of; and, of course, the ones with the likes of Emma Muscat and Denise Kim Gafà!

“I’m now looking forward to getting my new perfume! Who’d have thought I’d win? I just pressed a few buttons – it was so easy!”

MICHELA CATANIA, 28, won over €250 worth of Lancôme skincare thanks to Chemimart Group!

“I find that having a digital version of a magazine makes it easier to take around with me and actually read. The interactive features really add to the great articles, and it’s much more fun to flick through and read it from cover-to-cover… Even on an iPad! Also, I noticed I’m giving the adverts much more attention than I’d done before. The short clips really help.

“Oh, and I’d definitely recommend it to friends and family. It’s just a great thing to have on your phone for whenever you feel like reading something fun!”

NICOLE FORMOSA, 23, won a €1,000 to spend at SCAN! “One of the main reasons I downloaded the TOM Mag app was to be able to enjoy Sunday Circle while also being more environmentally friendly. I’m also one who loves to read on the go and not having anything extra to carry is fantastic. I was also

There’s more to be won in the current and future editions of

incredibly happy to see that the quality and content were just as

Sunday Circle digital. To enter, simply download the TOM Mag

great on digital – I love the articles about local celebrities and that

app through the App Store or Google Play straight to your phone

give us insight into their personal lives and worlds!

or tablet! Find out more at www.tom-mag.com

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

47

CIRCLE PROMOTION

The new ShipLowCost.com EXPRESS TRAILERS HAS REVAMPED AND EXTENDED ITS OFFERING TO ALLOW CUSTOMERS TO SEND ANYTHING THEY WANT TO ANYWHERE THEY WANT TO IN JUST A FEW CLICKS. HERE, CHAIRMAN AND CEO FRANCO AZZOPARDI EXPLAINS THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS. Over the years, Express Trailers has evolved into the market leader of the logistics industry, specialising in providing complete logistics solutions from a single source. Today, the Group’s expertise lies in over-land transport, air cargo, ocean freight and travel, making it the perfect partner for businesses and individuals to sell abroad – particularly through its ShipLowCost.com venture.

“Our strategic plan to serve the local retailer in gaining access to the global market has been in place since the genesis of ShipLowCost, particularly as retailers are moving towards omnichannel by adding e-commerce to their brick-and-mortar outlets,” Mr Azzopardi says.

“One of the bigger challenges with living on an island is the efficiency and effectiveness of the delivery of e-sales to their customers around the world. By providing local online sellers with a platform that enables them to sell to anywhere in the world, we are actually enabling everyone to become a global retailer.

“To date, ShipLowCost.com was geared mainly towards online shoppers who redirected their online purchases to one of our depots spread around Europe and, from there, we had them shipped directly to Malta through our extensive road network.”

The strength in this offering by Express Trailers is that the Group owns its own fleet and makes thousands of trips to and from Malta, making this an incredibly efficient one. Moreover, with

ShipLowCost.com the service is being extended to anyone – business or individual – who wants to sell and ship to anywhere in the world.

“In fact, we have launched the service now, at this particular time of the year, for those many customers who might also wish to send presents to their loved ones abroad over the Christmas season,” Mr Azzopardi adds.

“Being strongly entrenched in total logistics, we can support our exporting client through a few clicks. This also includes a collection service, right-sizing of packing boxes and, for the bigger retailer, managed warehousing with a pick-packdeliver option.”

This project, to which the Group has been affording a lot of energy over the past three years, contributes further to strengthening Express Trailers’ leading position in Malta’s logistics sector. Indeed, Mr Azzopardi insists that ShipLowCost.com is going to remain one of the main priorities and goals for Express Trailers over 2019.

“From a commercial aspect, we are going to enhance ShipLowCost.com’s business-to-business capabilities to include an export service for online sales done by Maltabased retailers. With this new enabling service, one does not need to be a huge exporter to sell abroad. From now on, one is able to sell even small quantities and rely on the best of breed logistics for export and final delivery,” he concludes. www.shiplowcost.com

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

49

HEALTH

Going mental over

Christ mas?

YOUR MENTAL WELL-BEING IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN FINDING THE RIGHT GIFTS FOR YOUR LOVED ONES AND EXCELLING AT SEASONAL HOSTING. PSYCHOTHERAPIST DANJELA FALZON’S ADVICE IS ON POINT. With Christmas just around the corner, I can’t help but embark on

leave or can it wait?” Then make a plan of how you’ll manage the

my yearly reflections on the meaning of Christmas, followed closely

workload on your return so you can switch off and enjoy your time

by an internal conflict based on whether I actually like this time of

away from the office.

year or not. As I write this I can almost the hear gasps of horror

I imagine that some of you may feel compelled or may even

coming from those of you who love everything to do with

be required to check work emails during your time off. This doesn’t

Christmas. Admittedly, the joys of Christmas do outweigh the

need to ruin your holidays – and it won’t if you create some limits

challenges. However, for those of you who resonate with my

as to how and when you’ll work. Allocate a specific time of the day

feelings but won’t dare admit it, I’m going to go through some of

to check emails and stick to it, allowing yourself to have the break

the challenges which arise during the festive season and how we

you need and deserve.

can make things a little easier for ourselves.

Chill when it comes to your inbox With end of year approaching, the pressure to close off outstanding projects, finalise reports and clear our inboxes can

When socialising or spending time with your loved ones, resist the urge to check your phone constantly. Allow yourself to have quality time with the people you care about without work emails or technological devices taking priority.

Then there are the Christmas-related tasks, which can be just

take its toll. If you notice your anxiety and stress levels rising, make

as time consuming as our full-time jobs. If you’re planning a large

a list of everything that needs to be done and prioritise. Ask

get-together, Christmas lunch or the like, don’t do everything

yourself: “Does this task really need to be done before I go out on

yourself. Delegate tasks to others, such as cooking or preparation

50 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

HEALTH

on the day. If the task of Christmas shopping can be shared, then

Christmas, everyone would seem to revert to the roles and

share it. Don’t take all the responsibility yourself. You may rattle a

behaviour that defined them as children. Unnecessary conflicts and

few cages if the people around you are used to you taking on most

the re-hashing of old memories would then ensue, creating an

of the workload but don’t let that stop you. Keep reminding

atmosphere of tension and anxiety.

yourself that you, too, deserve to enjoy the holidays!

Whatever it is, whether it be the uncle who gets drunk and embarrasses people, or the cousin who tries to start arguments,

Take care of The Fam For most of us, Christmas is an occasion to spend quality time

remember that nothing which hasn’t been resolved after all these years will be resolved over a boozy Christmas lunch. By all means,

with family and friends. This is often a time for extended families to

make it clear what you will not tolerate, but don’t allow yourself to

reunite, particularly for those families who live in different countries

be drawn into family dramas and unnecessary conflict.

or who are too busy to meet regularly throughout the year.

While such get-togethers can be lots of fun, it’s almost inevitable that prolonged periods in close quarters with family members, all with their own baggage and history, can lead to conflict or stress.

Some years ago I remember a client telling me how, when she and her grown-up siblings returned to the family home for

If your Squad falls short, make your own plans This will help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Not everyone is surrounded by family and friends during the Christmas period. This may be due to family conflict, separation, bereavement, or due to living far away from family and friends.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

51

HEALTH

longer with you, making it a time of sadness as well as joy.

Whatever your situation is, scrap the idea that Christmas is perfect for anyone and try to appreciate what you do have, no matter how small. Remember also, while scrolling through Instagram, Facebook and other social media platforms, that comparing your full reality with snapshots of people’s lives only when they’re enjoying themselves is not a fair or realistic comparison.

Avoid being too extra Or, minimise over-indulgence. With office parties and other Christmas gettogethers springing up in your calendar, this can also be a time of over-indulgence.

There’s quite a high probability that you’ll eat more during the Christmas period and drink more alcohol, particularly since increased stress can lead to cravings for sugary, fatty foods and alcohol.

This can cause nasty hangovers, Whatever your situation is, try to make plans for the day. Is

tiredness, indigestion and heart-burn, as well as weight gain. While

there anyone you know in a similar situation with whom you can

I’m not suggesting taking a container of carrot sticks to your next

spend your day, such as friends who also can’t make it home for

party, or replacing your mum’s buttery mince pies with a crunchy

Christmas?

apple and faking enjoyment, I am going to suggest a few measures

Prepare a nice meal for yourself, watch a festive film and play some games – anything that is fun and helps you connect with the people around you if fair game!

If you’re feeling sad, lonely or isolated, allow yourself to grieve and feel sad. However, do try to make that extra effort to reach out. You may be quite surprised to find that you’re not alone in whatever it is you’re feeling.

to balance the overindulgence: Drink plenty of water, especially on days before and after a day you drink alcohol Try to balance a heavy-eating day with other days where you eat fresh fruit and vegetables and lighter meals If you have an exercise routine, don’t let it slip just because it’s Christmas. If you don’t have one, try to use this period to get some fresh air, take long walks or take a class, etc. Exercise

Don’t shoot too high In other words, manage your expectations. If we were to believe the Christmas ads, messages sent through social media and the countless Christmas films which adorn our screens, Christmas is made up of perfect families coming together to enjoy a day of love, laughter and generosity. The pressure to conform to this pictureperfect Christmas creates frustration, sadness and stress for anyone whose reality doesn’t quite match-up.

Yes, Christmas is a time to socialise, spend time with people we love and exchange gifts, but things needn’t be perfect for us to enjoy this time. Relationships are often tested, family structures can be complex, and our difficulties and challenges don’t just disappear because it’s Christmas.

You’d be wrong to assume, based on the popular portrayal of Christmas, that your life doesn’t match up to that of most people.

You may not have the perfect, ‘traditional’ family or be invited to every party. Christmas may be a time you miss someone who is no

52 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good so it’s the ideal way to take care of yourself, inside and out.

Take the time to re-energise and reflect on your year – what went well, what didn’t and what you’d like to change next year Try meditating, taking a yoga class or doing anything which you find relaxing, such as reading a book, watching a film, having a massage or taking a walk by the sea.

Be kind!

Finally, I’d like to suggest using Christmas as an opportunity to give to others rather than simply receive. You’ll find that the satisfaction you feel from connecting with others and bringing them joy is much longer-lasting than the short-lived joy of receiving.

No matter what your situation is and how you choose to spend this Christmas, I wish you the best in finding healthy ways to manage any stress which arises during this period.

Psychotherapist Danjela Falzon works with clients suffering from anxiety and depression, relationship issues, sexuality, personality disorders, disability and learning difficulties, identity and self-esteem issues, as well as those wishing to work on personal development. She is currently part of the team at TherapyWorks Clinic (https://www.therapyworks.com.mt/).

HOW CHRISTMAS AFFECTS YOUR MENTAL HEALTH Regular surveys carried out by UK charity MIND reveal worrying statistics about the deterioration of mental health during the Christmas period.

20% - The number of people who feel lonely come Christmas time,

25% - The amount of people who go through periods of anxiety because of seasonal social gatherings, according to the same survey.

36% - The number of people with mental health problems who have self-harmed due to the pressures of Christmas.

76% - The number of people who have difficulties sleeping at Christmas.

Going through a tough time?

The Appoġġ helpline, 179, is always open for those who are going through mental troubles.

The Crisis Resolution helpline, 99339966, offers immediate help by professionals on a 24/7 basis.

Kellimni.com is an online support service run by trained staff and volunteers reachable through e-mail, chat and smart messaging 24/7 for support.

The EU-wide Emotional Support Helpline, 116123, is also available in Malta, offering emotional support to callers suffering from loneliness, those who find themselves in a state of psychological crisis.

PEOPLE

PHOTOS: BRIAN GRECH

54 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

PEOPLE

Unforgettable, like him FRESH FROM HIS DEBUT PERFORMANCE AT THE WORLD-FAMOUS GLYNDEBOURNE OPERA HOUSE, TENOR NICO DARMANIN WILL BE HOLDING HIS FIRST-EVER BIG BAND SWING CONCERT IN MALTA. HE TELLS ANABEL ATTARD WHY HE’S THRILLED TO BE COMING HOME FOR UNFORGETTABLE. Some people are set on their future path at a very young age.

him to leave law behind and head to the Royal College of Music to

Tenor Nico Darmanin is one of them. In fact, he always had an

audition to further his studies in opera. One thing led to the next,

‘inner feeling’ about music and, even as a little boy, would get

and he found himself at the National Opera Studio – a very

goose bumps listening to Mozart symphonies on cassette.

prestigious institution where just 12 singers a year are chosen to

“Music was so important in our house, and I have to thank my parents for that,” Nico says. “They exposed me to so many different genres, and there was always something classical playing. They

study with the best coaches, directors and conductors from across Europe.

Fast forward a few years, and Nico now has the successful

also sent me for piano lessons, and I remember doing well in the

opera career the always dreamed of. Among his recent triumphs,

aural music tests. I always listened to music with great attention,

he made his debut at the world-famous Glyndebourne Opera

and recall playing my own little tunes when I was about seven or

House, playing both Gastone and Alfredo in La Traviata for their

eight years old, thinking I was composing my own music. I never

2018 tour. He has also performed at the Royal Opera House, Covent

did shy away from taking risks. I always went with what I felt, and

Garden, Welsh National Opera, Scottish Opera, Opera Vlaanderen,

that’s very important for singing because you are emoting through

Opera Holland Park, the Wexford Opera Festival and the Rossini

your voice, a natural bodily instrument.”

Opera Festival in Pesaro.

Nico’s very first taste of the stage was at four years old, when he played the Prince in one of Chiswick House School’s annual plays at the Alambra in Sliema. “I actually have

And now for something a little

I want to bring the Golden Oldies back to Malta

vivid flashbacks of that day,” he smiles. “Turns out, after I tasted the limelight, I couldn’t stay away!”

He says he then owes his very first experience of a full-scale production to Anthony West, one of his favourite teachers at De La

bit different… he will be returning to Malta for a one-weekend-only concert at the Archaeology Museum in February, accompanied by the Big Band Brothers and singer Jasmine Abela. It will be an all-out

swing concert in the museum’s Grand Salon, and Nico says he is passionate about performing this fabulous genre on the island.

“I want to bring the Golden Oldies back to Malta,” he grins. “I

Salle College. “De La Salle was the perfect playground for me to

think the island is the perfect setting, and the Valentine’s period is

express my artistic needs,” he continues. “Everyone there was so

the ideal time for this type of music. As a team we thought long

nurturing and they always encouraged theatrical expression.

and hard about this event and who to bring on board and, of

“Nevertheless, I soon got bogged down thinking I should

course, the Big Band Brothers are absolutely perfect. Jasmine, the

follow the academic route. I studied for a law degree but eventually

band and I, as well as my producer Toni Attard, are all very

realised where my heart really was, and I couldn’t stay away from

passionate about this event and we really think it will instill that

music any longer.”

sparkle of love in the couples that join us. It promises to be ideal

Nico says he owes his introduction to classical singing and the opera world to Gillian Zammit, who remains one of his most trusted mentors. Along with Denise Mulholland, Gillian encouraged

for all ages as the music is timeless.”

As a result, the tenor details how he is hoping to create a ‘chilled vibe’ with Unforgettable. “We want to stimulate the

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

55

PEOPLE

senses; bring back memories for those who are closer in age to this era, while also creating a spark for the younger generations who have not had the opportunity to be exposed to it as much.

This music is alive and well in other parts of the world, and especially in America. We have contemporaries like Michael Bublé, Seal and Robbie Williams who have filled venues like the Royal Albert Hall and the Wembley Arena giving huge concerts singing this genre. It’s loved by everyone, and it’s time Malta got to enjoy some too.

“I feel so fortunate to have teamed up with the Big Band Brothers – who are one of the best bands of this genre on the island. We have already discussed the repertoire we will perform in depth and are very excited about our choices. I will also have the pleasure to sing with Jasmine, our guest artist for the evening; she has the most exquisite voice! She is the perfect fit for the genre too.”

So, with just a few weeks to go, Nico says he’s absolutely elated to be returning home for this fabulous event – followed by a stint in Cosi Fan Tutte at Teatru Manoel in March, and a big tour of Don Pasquale with the prestigious Welsh National Opera after that.

“The fact I will be spending the next few months making music across these two different genres – swing and opera – is wonderful! I think it is a reflection of my playfulness. I truly believe an artist’s life is like a canvas – and it is up to the artist to fill that canvas with as many different colours as possible. This is certainly turning out to be a beautifully colourful season!” he adds.

Unforgettable – A Concert by Nico Darmanin will take place on February 13, 14 and 15 at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta. www.ticketline.com.mt

CIRCLE PROMOTION

The pursuit of self-compliance in property development HOW DOES THE PLANNING AUTHORITY ENSURE THAT THE DEVELOPMENT TAKING PLACE ACROSS THE ISLANDS IS LEGAL? AND WHO MAKES SURE THAT THE PERMISSIONS ISSUED ARE BEING ADHERED TO? HERE, THE DIRECTOR OF THE COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT DIRECTORATE WITHIN THE PLANNING AUTHORITY, PERIT RAPHAEL AXIAK, EXPLAINS THE PROCESS AND THE FIGURES. It is estimated that, on any one day throughout the year, there are 2,500 sites on which construction is taking place with a permission from the Planning Authority (PA), and a further potential of 1,300 worksites covered by a Development Notification Order (DNO). To these, one also has to add the countless minor developments that do not require permission, and the inevitable ones that take place illegally.

When taking all this into consideration, it’s pretty safe to say that ensuring that everyone is following the law and the requirements of their permission, is no mean feat. Indeed, for the 33 full-time Compliance & Enforcement Officers and the management team at the PA, a working day can be pretty chock-a-block.

“Each Officer is assigned and is responsible for an area or development sector around the Maltese Islands,” says Raphael, who has worked with the PA for

hoarding and netting (for protection,

other 25% are happening in the Outside

the past 23 years. “These responsibilities

visual screening, and control of dust

Development Zones (ODZ). The latter,

vary, but it’s mostly inspecting sites to

emissions), the provision of a safe and

Raphael says, is mostly related to

ensure that an actual permission (where

unobstructed pavement for pedestrians,

agriculture and infrastructure

required) had been issued, that it has not

and that no works were being carried out

development, or else developments taking

expired, and that the conditions and

on Sundays and public holidays. The PA

place in numerous hamlets and stand-

approved documents are being followed…

officers inspected around 2,500

alone dwellings that pepper the

Anything which looks suspicious is

construction sites in all localities. Over

countryside.

thoroughly investigated.”

1550 of these were found to be non-

Over the summer, the PA officers

“The term ‘development’, as defined

compliant and the officers were required

in the Development Planning Act of 2016,

were also requested to assist the Building

to persuade property developers to

encompasses various types of works,”

Regulation Office (BRO) to monitor the

include adequate measures on site.

Raphael explains. “It can refer to actual

Construction Site Management

Currently, it is estimated that circa

construction, of course, but also to the

Regulations. This was done to ensure that

75% of developments are taking place

installation of advertisements and

during construction works there was a

within the development zone, while the

erection of billboards, the change of use

58 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

CIRCLE PROMOTION

of buildings (for example, from a dwelling to an office), land reclamation, aquaculture (like fish farms), and much more.” The legislation also requires the PA to monitor cases where the condition of a property is causing an injury to the amenity of the area within which it is located.

The same definition of ‘development’ and development orders, which may be published, however, also mean that certain works are excluded from requiring a permission, such as maintenance operations that only affect the interior of non-scheduled buildings, the use of land for agricultural purposes (such as the rotation of crops), and certain changes of use which are defined

"Our able officers and managers work on persuading owners and occupiers to become compliant with the requirements of the law; something which is far more cost-effective."

permission, the PA has also taken a more strategic approach. In fact, the first step taken by the PA should such work come to light is to give land owners and occupiers the chance to self-comply by removing the illegal development or requesting sanctioning by submitting an application to the PA. The latter, however, only applies to development which would have been given the greenlight under normal circumstances.

“Should the owners not take action or ignore the PA’s requests, an Enforcement Notice is then issued, which would require the contraveners to comply by law. This can, of course, be appealed with the Environment & Planning Review Tribunal, which is a completely separate

by a Class system (for example, from a

entity to the PA, and, following that, the

shoe shop to a stationery, or from a public

decision may also be appealed at the

library to a museum).

Courts of Appeal. Nevertheless, appeals

“There are various types of

development which require permission

from Enforcement Notices are rarely

permissions, development orders and

(usually minor developments which do

upheld since we only issue Enforcement

legal notices that apply to a wide-range of

not cause adverse impacts), so as to make

Notices where there is a strong case and

developments by individuals and

it easier for the public to get on with their

the efforts to persuade the contravener

developers in both the public and private

lives while also allowing our Officers to

have failed.”

spheres. Indeed, the idea behind

focus on the real issues.”

development orders and legal notices is to reduce the number of the types of

Thankfully, PA’s approach to work

When it comes to development

together with people on righting their

carried out without, or not according to,

wrongs is working, with the number of

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

59

CIRCLE PROMOTION

Enforcement Notices going down from over 1,000 10 years ago, to around 350 in 2018.

“Our able officers and managers work on persuading owners and occupiers to become compliant with the requirements of the law; something which is far more cost-effective than taking this to the final step in the process, which requires us to take direct action for the removal of illegal development at the full expense of the contravener.”

Just this year, over 154 direct actions were taken by the PA. While some are relatively straight-forward and considered as minor – such as the sealing off of illegal buildings – others require more

"In my opinion, the fewer Enforcement Notices we issue and the less direct action we take – while ensuring that development is being carried out legally – the more successful we are."

coordination and logistics, including the

surprising, though, as there are more property transactions taking place and Compliance Certificates are only valid for one unit, meaning a block of offices or flats would require a Compliance Certificate per office or apartment.”

Of course, through all this, the whole team at the Compliance & Enforcement Directorate hopes to ensure that developments are carried out legally, in accordance with the permissions issued and the provisions of the law, so that the public can enjoy safe and aestheticallypleasing buildings, as well as protect the countryside.

And all this couldn’t be done without the help of the general public, who, every year, submits over 3,000

engagement of specialist contractors, the

complaints about potential illegal

Police and other entities, costing the

be included in the documents given to a

development – of which, around 50% turn

contraveners tens of thousands of euro.

bank for a loan, or attached to property

out to be genuine cases which are

contracts. When issuing these certificates,

thoroughly investigated.

“In my opinion, the fewer Enforcement Notices we issue and the

the Officers are confirming that the

less direct action we take – while ensuring

development has been carried out

public, who help us daily in our work!”

that development is being carried out

according to the conditions and approved

Raphael concludes.

legally – the more successful we are.

drawings/documents of the permission

Indeed, as an Authority, we believe that

issued after 1968 (anything built before is

we should get people to comply rather

considered legal); or else that it was

Planning Authority’s Customer Care on

than to intervene ourselves.”

carried out by public entities before 1989

2290 0000 or send an email to

(government and public entities didn’t

customercare@pa.org.mt. To check what

require permitting before then).

kind of permission you require for your

Another task Officers are in charge of is Compliance Certification. These certificates are particularly important for

“By the end of 2018, we’ll have

“For that, we have to thank the

To file a complaint, please call the

development to be in line with the law,

anyone looking to install water or

issued almost 10,000 such certificates –

please visit the ‘Do I Need a Permit?’

electricity services into a new building, to

an increase on last year’s 9,250. This isn’t

section at www.pa.org.mt.

60 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

LIVING WIN A DREAM HOLIDAY WITH KLIKK AND ROCS

With more than 250 items on sale, you can find a wide variety of gadgets for the special people in your life this Christmas. These include laptops, mobile phones, speakers, Play Station, televisions, cameras, and much more! Oh, and not only will you be the ultimate gift-giver, but you’ll also be eligible to win a dream, four-night holiday for two in Paris including accommodation and return flights on Airmalta (in collaboration with ROCS; Terms and Conditions Apply).

Klikk has also extended its opening hours in December, opening between 9am and 7pm on weekdays, and between 9am and 6pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

Web: www.klikk.com.mt

REACH YOUR HEALTH AND FITNESS GOALS

Live your best life with Fitbit Versa – an all-day smartwatch bursting with features to help you reach your health and fitness goals. These include personalised insights, music, and call/text and calendar alert notifications, among others. All this in a Fitbit with a battery life of more than four days! Available from Ultimate shops in San Gwann, Paola, Qormi & Sliema, Web: www.ultimate.com.mt

62 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

FESTIVE WINES FOR FESTIVE OCCASIONS

There’s a lot to be merry about this Christmas, particularly these two delicious Delicata Wines. The Ġellewża Frizzante is a wonderful pink aperitif made entirely from the unique indigenous red grape variety Ġellewża; semi-sparkling and medium-dry, it’s bursting with ripe, fruity flavours.

Meanwhile, the Girgentina Frizzante is a dry sparkler made entirely from the unique indigenous white grape variety Girgentina. This crisp, refreshing, fruity, dry semisparkling wine is full-flavoured with a creamy, rich mouthful of ‘fizz and fruit’. Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker Ltd, Web: www.delicata.com

?????

PAPA RAZZI

• 1-5 Presentation of The Johnnie Walker Horse Race Cup at the Malta Racecourse, organized by M. Demajo (Wines & Spirits) Ltd. • 6-9 The Honorary Consular Corps held their Annual reception at Villa Arrigo, Naxxar at the end of October. H.E. Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, the President of Malta, and the Hon Dr. Michael Farrugia, Minister for Home Affairs and National Security were among the many guests present at the reception.

• 10-13 The third annual edition of the Social Impact Awards saw over 90.000 euros being donated to a number of positive social initiatives.

• 14-15 The opening of the Gerry Weber store on Tower Road, Sliema.

Alfred Braddick and Owen Bonello

Roberta Mifsud and William Templeman

Prof. Godfrey Pirotta, Prof. Stephen Calleya, Norbert Cilia, H.E. Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and Godwin E. Bencini

Sarah Louise Nunn, JanKarl Farrugia, Alexia Pecheritsa and Samantha Scott Calascione

1

4

7

10

13

Xandru Grech, Christine Vella Wallbank, Gemma Monclus, Mark Weingard, Daria Klykova, Louisa Attard, Joseph Gasan, Sarah Carbonaro and Vanessa Azzopardi

M Demajo W&S Staff

Romina Cilia, Matthea Mercieca, Louise Abela, Kristina Axisa and Marisa Buhagiar

Dr George Vella, Dr Claudette Buttigieg and David Pace

David Zammit, Mark Portelli, Francis Carbonaro and Anthony Mamo

Carina Camilleri, Daniela Said and Maria Borg

64 Sunday Circle ∫ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL EDITION 2018

2

5

8

11

14

Marco Fenech, Lucienne Fenech, Louise Abela, Marlis Farrugia, Etienne Abela and Neil Farrugia

Hon. Dr Michael Farrugia, H.E. Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and Godwin E. Bencini

Harold Ellul-Mercer, Miguel Bonello, Annabelle Bonello, Matthew E. Sullivan, Hilda Ellul Mercer and Karl Farrugia Wismayer

3

6

9

12

Rodianne Spiteri, Catherine Azzopardi, George Azzopardi, Deborah Falzon and Lawrence Paterson

Mairen Duque, Oumaima Errami, Maria Borg, Stephanie Hodgkins and Lea Bellizzi

15

NAXXAR / SLIEMA / VALLETTA

WWW.VASCAS.COM.MT

louiserard.ch

louiserard.ch

MIRRORING THE EMOTIONS OF EVERY WOMAN

1977 COLLECTION ALFIERISTJOHN.IT

FASCINATING PEARLS Pearls are the only jewels created by a living

Although

they

share

many

of

the

same

animal. A natural pearl of value is found in less

characteristics, they can look vastly different as

than 1 in every 10,000 wild oysters.

each pearl is sourced from a different species of oyster. These oceanic oysters typically grow only

All pearl oysters are born male and transform

one pearl at a time.

into females at around three years of age.

The earliest record we have of pearls as

There are three major types of saltwater cultured pearls:

precious objects are artefacts from Mesopotamia

Akoya, Tahitian & South Sea.

Aboriginal archaeological dig in the Kimberley

dated to around 2300 B.C. Recently, a two thousand year old pearl was found in an Australian region of Western Australia.

At Vascas you can ďŹ nd a variety of top quality cultured pearls, Japanese Akoya, Australian South Sea and Tahitian pearls. To assist you in choosing the perfect pearl for you, we have our in house professional gemmologist who is available at your convenience.

At Vascas we are proud to have our own

These pearls account for approximately 5%

of the total weight of global pearl production.

professional stringer who had the honour to string a 7 row pearl necklace for the late Princess Diana.

The Moments we Share are the Memories we Treasure !!

VASCAS

Sliema - 2258 9244

www.vascas.com.mt

Naxxar - 2258 9200

Valletta - 2258 9243

Moments we share are the memories we treasure

International certified Diamonds GIA - HRD - IGI