GOZO your best opera destination

Every October an Opera month is celebrated right in the heart of the Mediterranean. The island of Gozo, part of the archipelago of Malta, offers acclaimed opera performances; a unique experience for the discerning traveller seeking an intense cultural destination against the backdrop of a beautiful island bursting with historical sites.

With its 30,000 inhabitants and two opera houses, Gozo has more opera per square kilometre than any other place in the world. The opera houses, literally a few metres apart, are run by two storied societies whose initiatives and dedication have put the tiny island of Gozo on the opera map. The societies’ healthy rivalry and their no-holds-barred commitment brings forth genuine art that delights opera lovers every autumn.

Gozo’s Opera Month is an important fixture in the international classical music calendar. The festival includes two fully staged operas performed at The Astra theatre and Aurora Theatre in Victoria as well as recitals, opera appreciation workshops and activities for seasoned opera-goers right through to those new to this scene.

Gozo’s opera productions feature world-class and local singers. This is complemented by local carpenters, seamstresses and volunteers, who donate their talents and time to build sets, craft costumes and to man theatre box offices. Each production is indeed a community effort.

Both theatres were busy preparing for Bizet’s Carmen and Verdi’s Aida for this year’s opera season. Tenors and singers have been booked and stages were being designed. However, most preparations had to be halted due to the current Covid-19 issue. This year’s opera month is highly dependant on how this issue unfolds. For updates keep an eye on www.visitgozo.com.