Opera Nova: Malta’s Cultural Sensation Turns 2

Imagine the grand stage of the Teatru Manoel, Malta’s historic theatre, bathed in the soft glow of stage lights. Now, picture it filled with the vibrant energy of a troupe of young, passionate opera singers. This is not a dream, but a reality created by Opera Nova, Malta’s innovative opera project, celebrating its second anniversary this month.

Opera Nova was born in 2020, in the heart of Malta’s cultural scene, with a mission to nurture local talent and bring opera to the masses. Founded by the dynamic duo of soprano Lynda Tedesco and tenor Joseph Zammit, the project started as a small group of dedicated singers rehearsing in a humble studio in Birkirkara. Fast forward two years, and Opera Nova has taken centre stage, performing in some of Malta’s most prestigious venues and even gracing the international stage in Italy.

Opera Nova’s secret sauce? Making opera accessible and appealing to a new generation. They’ve done this by breaking down barriers, both literal and figurative. They’ve performed in unique venues like the Upper Barrakka Gardens, bringing opera to the people, quite literally. They’ve also reimagined classic operas, giving them a fresh, modern twist that resonates with younger audiences.

But Opera Nova isn’t just about the spectacle. It’s about community. The project has provided a platform for local talent to shine, with many of its singers going on to perform with international opera houses. It’s also fostered a sense of camaraderie among its members, who hail from diverse backgrounds but share a common passion for opera.

As Opera Nova blows out its second candle, it’s not resting on its laurels. The project has big plans for the future, including more international performances, collaborations with local artists, and even a foray into opera education. Lynda and Joseph envision a future where opera is not just a niche art form, but a vibrant part of Malta’s cultural scene.

But don’t just take our word for it. As Lynda puts it, “Opera Nova is not just about us, the founders. It’s about every singer who’s stepped onto our stage, every audience member who’s felt the magic of opera. It’s about all of us, coming together to celebrate music, to celebrate Malta.”