Spazju Kreattiv is launching an innovative and diverse theatrical project titled Skeċċ – The National Festival of Short Plays, which will take place from 5th to 7th June.

This brand-new festival will feature short, original theatrical productions that have never been performed before. Each play will last between 10 and 20 minutes, be presented in either Maltese or English, and explore contemporary themes and cultural diversity.

Audiences will have the opportunity to watch all selected plays in a single evening. These productions will be presented three times over the course of three days, across different spaces within St James Cavalier, Valletta.

The main aim of the festival is to serve as a key platform for new voices and emerging talent, while encouraging creativity and fresh perspectives in the theatre scene.

It will include a mix of experienced writers and newcomers, offering space for both seasoned actors and directors, as well as those taking their first steps in theatre.

This balance will ensure that, while the desired level of quality is maintained, there is also room for individuals who have never had the opportunity to showcase their skills. In doing so, the festival will fulfil its core objective: to spotlight new perspectives and voices.

Joseph Galea, the Director of the Skeċċ Festival, stated: “Like other major initiatives organised by Spazju Kreattiv, Skeċċ should establish its place in the country’s artistic calendar. As the National Centre for Creativity, Spazju Kreattiv is undoubtedly the ideal venue to curate such a festival through its various spaces.

“We hope that this festival will leave a lasting legacy, with more writers and creative groups in the coming years who will begin their journey here and continue to advance in the theatre scene.”

Daniel Azzopardi, Director of Spazju Kreattiv, added: “Through this new project, Spazju Kreattiv remains at the forefront in providing opportunities for emerging artists to develop their skills within a professional framework that opens doors for them in the sector.”

“Furthermore, the festival allows for the engagement of new audiences who can relate to these initiatives. In this way, Spazju Kreattiv’s programme will serve as a point of reference where one can experience topical and relevant themes and subjects that spark greater interest in the arts and culture.”

Out of twenty-six submitted applications, the following six plays were selected by a jury of experts:

L-Istatwa by David Aloisio

Raġel fuq L-Irġiel by Karl Schembri

Sweet Sixteen by Josue Formosa

Unspoken Bonds by Stefan Galea Debono

Qas Jekk Jinżlu l-Allat by Clint Chircop

Il-Wieħed u Sebgħin by Brandon Terribile

Will you be checking this festival out?