Farewell to Felicity Lott: Malta’s Beloved Opera Star
Malta’s Own Opera Star: A Farewell to Felicity Lott
In the heart of Valletta, at the Teatru Manoel, a single red rose lies on the stage, a poignant reminder of the void left by the passing of Dame Felicity Lott. The British soprano, who graced the Maltese stage numerous times, has died at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy that transcended borders and filled concert halls with her enchanting voice.
From Malta to the World Stage
Born in Kent, England, Lott’s connection to Malta was more than just a performer’s visit. Her mother was Maltese, and she often spoke of her love for the island, its people, and its culture. Her first performance in Malta was in 1984, at the Manoel Theatre, where she would return time and time again. But her journey to stardom began much earlier.
Lott studied at the Royal College of Music and made her professional debut in 1967 at the Glyndebourne Festival. From there, she went on to perform in the world’s most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Paris Opera, and the Royal Opera House in London. Yet, she never forgot her Maltese roots and the warmth of the audiences here.
Lott’s Legacy in Malta
Lott’s performances in Malta were more than just concerts. They were homecomings. She sang at the Manoel Theatre, the Astra Theatre in Victoria, Gozo, and even at the ancient megalithic temples of Mnajdra and Ġgantija. Her voice, filled with emotion and technical mastery, echoed through the islands, leaving a lasting impact on Maltese audiences.
Her last performance in Malta was in 2018, at the Manoel Theatre, where she sang a recital of French and English songs. The audience, as always, was captivated. “Her voice was like a warm embrace,” recalled Joseph, a long-time fan from Birkirkara. “It filled the theatre and our hearts.”
Remembering Felicity Lott
News of Lott’s death has left the Maltese arts community mourning. “She was more than just a performer,” said Mro. Rayco Cassar, a Maltese composer. “She was a friend to Malta and its music.” Plans are underway to commemorate Lott’s life and legacy in Malta. A memorial concert is being organized at the Manoel Theatre, where that single red rose will once again grace the stage, this time in her memory.
As we bid farewell to Dame Felicity Lott, let us remember her not with tears, but with the sweet melodies that filled our hearts and our theatres. Let us remember her as she would want to be remembered – as a singer, a friend, and a lover of music and life.
