Żabbar Council Buys Hompesch Theatre to Save It

Picture this: a grand, historic theatre, its once-bustling stage now silent, its future uncertain. This is not a scene from a melancholic movie, but the reality of Żabbar’s Hompesch Theatre until recently. Now, a glimmer of hope. The Żabbar Local Council has stepped in, purchasing the theatre to save it from potential development and secure its place in Malta’s cultural scene.

The Hompesch Theatre’s story begins in the late 18th century when Grand Master Manuel Pinto de Fonseca transformed his Żabbar residence into a theatre. It was here that the first public theatre performances in Maltese were held. Fast forward to the 20th century, the theatre fell into disrepair, its grandeur faded, and its future uncertain.

Enter Żabbar Local Council. In a move that has sparked joy among locals and cultural enthusiasts alike, the council bought the theatre, ensuring it won’t be sold to developers who might turn it into yet another residential complex. “We couldn’t stand by and watch another piece of our cultural heritage disappear,” said Żabbar Mayor, Doris Abela.

The council’s plans are ambitious yet practical. They aim to restore the theatre to its former glory, transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub. “We envision the Hompesch Theatre as a space for local artists, a venue for community events, and a symbol of Żabbar’s rich history,” Abela explained.

But reviving the theatre won’t be easy or cheap. The council estimates restoration costs could reach €1 million. They’re calling on the public, local businesses, and government entities to contribute. “This is everyone’s heritage,” Abela said, “and we all have a role to play in preserving it.”

The council has already started the process, securing a €200,000 grant from the Malta Arts Council. They’re also working with local architects and historians to ensure the restoration stays true to the theatre’s original design.

With the purchase complete and plans in motion, the council is now focused on raising funds and starting restoration work. They’re inviting everyone to contribute, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.

“The Hompesch Theatre is more than just a building,” Abela said. “It’s a testament to our past, a space for our present, and a promise for our future. Let’s come together and save it.”