‘Turandot’, against all odds: A Maltese opera triumph

In the heart of Valletta, the Teatru Manoel’s stage was set for a challenge. The opera house, Malta’s oldest, was about to host ‘Turandot’, Puccini’s final masterpiece, in a time of pandemic uncertainty. The question on everyone’s mind: Could opera survive in a world of social distancing?

An opera in times of pandemic

As the curtain rose on ‘Turandot’, it marked more than just the start of a performance. It was a testament to Malta’s cultural resilience. The Teatru Manoel, usually packed with over 600 spectators, now accommodated just 150, each seat meticulously distanced. Masks were mandatory, and the air was thick with anticipation, not just for the opera, but for the experiment in progress.

Malta State Opera’s artistic director, Colin Attard, was optimistic. “Opera is about emotion, about sharing human experience. We can’t let that stop, even in these times,” he said, backstage before the performance.

Malta’s own Turandot

Casting a local twist to Puccini’s classic, Maltese soprano Miriam Gauci took the lead as the icy princess Turandot. Gauci, a regular on international opera stages, brought a unique perspective to the role. “Singing Turandot in Malta, in these circumstances, feels like a homecoming,” she said, her voice echoing in the historic theatre’s wings.

The production was a blend of international and local talent. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Michael Laus, provided the musical backbone. Meanwhile, local designers and technicians worked tirelessly behind the scenes, turning the Teatru Manoel into a sumptuous imperial palace.

Opera in the time of COVID

In the audience, masked faces watched intently, the usual coughs and rustles replaced by the occasional muffled sneeze. The performance was a reminder of opera’s power to transport, even in these strange times. Yet, it was also a stark illustration of the challenges ahead for live performance arts.

Attard acknowledges the difficulties. “We’re operating at a fraction of our usual capacity. Ticket sales are down, but we’re determined to keep opera alive in Malta,” he said. The State Opera is now exploring digital options, streaming performances to reach wider audiences while adhering to safety guidelines.

As the final notes of ‘Nessun dorma’ echoed through the Teatru Manoel, the audience erupted into applause. It was a moment of triumph, not just for the performers, but for Malta’s cultural scene, proving that even in the face of adversity, art can thrive.

As we navigate the months ahead, one thing is clear: Malta’s opera scene is not ready to fade to silence. It’s ready to sing, loudly and defiantly, against all odds.