د . إAEDSRر . س

Review: It-Teatru Tal-Miskin – A Heartbreaking Production On Queer Community’s Real Struggles

Article Featured Image

Last night I attended the final show of It-Teatru tal-Miskin, Luke Saydon’s brainchild produced by Saydon Studios – and the morning after, I am still reeling from what ended up being a heartbreaking and gut-wrenching experience.

I have attended quite a number of theatre productions throughout my life, however, I don’t think I’ve ever witnessed something as powerful and touching as It-Teatru tal-Miskin.

I was sitting on the edge of my seat before the performance had even begun, as the brilliant music set a mysterious and ominous yet somewhat playful tone.

The play starts off with the three buffi (clowns), played by the amazing Tom Camilleri, Sean Borg, and Chiara Hyzler, arriving in the secluded and conservative town of Ħal Fern, playing on the Maltese word for hell, infern.

The conventional and highly religious mayor of the town immediately rejected their arrival and started to do everything within his capacity to get them to leave. It’s apparent that he was threatened by the fresh energy that they brought with them – they were not what the town was used to.

But as the story progressed, it was made clear that the town had previously experienced a young man who tried to break through the barriers that traditional religion inflicted on sexuality and expression – by wearing pink high heels. 

This was not welcomed well at all – quite the contrary if anything, with the boy and his lover facing violence reeking of blatant homophobia.

The one-hour-and-a-half show was full of intricately placed details, and as the clowns recalled and reenacted the story of the protagonist, more connections continued to be established – however, I don’t want to give away too many details.

What was quite admirable was the fact that even though other characters were featured throughout, these were all played by the buffi. The vast extent of the actors’ talent was showcased through powerful acting, singing, and even dance.

There was a moment when my heart was crushed – because the production perfectly captured the struggles that the queer community faces in places that fail to accept them for who they are.

Its brilliant depiction of the conflict and pain queer individuals face caused by social conservatism was stark and brutally honest.

Although the play was very localised, and I truly appreciated the references to Maltese culture and the use of the Maltese language throughout, it depicted an issue that is still prevalent in many societies around the world.

Take what’s happening right now in Qatar with the World Cup, or what happened in Colorado Springs over the weekend – It-Teatru Tal-Miskin couldn’t be more relevant.

And even though Malta has come a long way in its acceptance of the queer community, what was explored during the production was still the dominating reality until 50 years ago.

I do hope that the production team decides to introduce another run with more shows in the near future because I firmly believe that a lot more people need to watch this genius play.

A notable mention goes to the production’s dream team, featuring Denise Mulholland on direction, Ruth Borg on movement, Claire Azzopardi on dramaturgy, costumes by Louie Noir, makeup by Krista Zammit Marmara, set by Matthew Pandolfino, and lighting by Moritz Zavan Stoekle.

Have you watched It-Teatru tal-Miskin?

READ NEXT: I Had Important Commitments, Aaron Farrugia Explains After Missing Parliament Questions On Transport Malta Beating

Sasha is a writer, creator, and podcast host interested in environmental matters, humans, and art. Some know her as Sasha tas-Sigar. Inspired by nature and the changing world. Follow her on Instagram at @saaxhaa and send her your stories at [email protected]

You may also love

View All