Ljieli Teatrali: Breathing Life into Maltese Theatre on the Silver Screen

Imagine this: the dimmed lights of the Eden Cinemas in St. Julian’s, the hushed anticipation of the audience, and then, the opening scene of ‘Il-Għawdxija’ flickers across the big screen. This isn’t a Hollywood blockbuster, but a Maltese play, given a new lease of life by ‘Ljieli Teatrali’.

Reviving Maltese Theatre for a Modern Audience

‘Ljieli Teatrali’ is a unique initiative that’s transforming Maltese theatre by bringing classic plays to the cinema. Founded by actor and director, Pierre Portelli, the project aims to preserve Maltese culture and make it accessible to a wider audience. “We’re not just digitising plays,” says Portelli, “we’re creating a new way for people to experience Maltese theatre.”

The project started in 2019, with the digitisation of ‘Il-Għawdxija’, a 1960s play by Maltese playwright, Joe Friggieri. The process involved meticulous planning, professional filming, and careful editing to maintain the essence of the play while making it cinematic. The result? A fresh, engaging experience that’s drawing in audiences who might not typically attend theatre performances.

From Stage to Screen: The Transformation Process

Converting a stage play into a cinematic experience is no easy task. It requires a delicate balance between preserving the original intent of the playwright and adapting it for a new medium. ‘Ljieli Teatrali’ achieves this by using multiple cameras, creative angles, and strategic editing. They also add subtitles in English, making the plays accessible to a broader audience.

Portelli explains, “We’re not just filming a play. We’re telling a story in a new way. We use close-ups, different camera angles, and even split screens to engage the audience and draw them into the story.”

Cultural Preservation Meets Modern Entertainment

‘Ljieli Teatrali’ isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about preserving Maltese culture. By digitising these plays, they’re ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from these works. “Maltese theatre has a rich history,” says Portelli, “but much of it is at risk of being lost. We’re trying to change that.”

The initiative has received positive feedback from both audiences and critics. Many appreciate the opportunity to experience Maltese theatre in a new, accessible way. Others praise the project’s commitment to cultural preservation.

, ‘Ljieli Teatrali’ plans to digitise more Maltese plays, including works by other notable playwrights like Francis Ebejer and Mario Azzopardi. They also hope to expand their reach, bringing Maltese theatre to audiences beyond Malta’s shores.

As Portelli puts it, “This is just the beginning. We want to show the world that Maltese theatre is alive, vibrant, and worth preserving.”