The world premiere of Joseph Vella`s opera in four acts ‘Valeriana – The Titan’s Rock’ (Opus 155), will take place at the Astra Theatre in Victoria, Gozo, on Saturday May 4th 2024.

Maestro Vella was composing ‘Valeriana’ at the time of his passing in 2018. The opera is based on a libretto by Vincent Vella, and was completed by Mro. Christopher Muscat, a former composition student of Joseph Vella. The premiere will include the participation of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, under the direction of Mro. Muscat himself, besides various established soloists.

During the launching of the opera at a press conference on Saturday 2nd March 2024, Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici stressed that through such productions, the cultural community had the opportunity to enjoy works by Maltese composers – in this case a new opera by leading composer Mro. Joseph Vella. Whilst thanking Festivals Malta’s team behind the production of this project, he also lauded the Astra Theatre for its contribution towards the promotion of local musical talent.

On his part, Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri expressed satisfaction that the world premiere of Mro. Vella`s opera will be performed in Gozo, adding that “opera is becoming synonymous with Gozo and always attracts large numbers of both local and foreign visitors”.

Maestro Vella`s son Nikki Vella also thanked Festivals Malta for collaborating with the Vella Family in showcasing this project that will be premiered posthumously, six years after Mro Vella`s passing. He emphasised the diversity of Maestro Vella`s rich musical repertoire, which lead to a considerable number of performances of Vella`s works in prestigious venues abroad, not least the Pantheon in Rome last year.

Booking for the opera will be available shortly via https://www.valeriana.mt/

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