Republic Day is a holiday celebrated annually on 13th December, but how much do you actually know about it? Some local thespians and musicians are taking action to provide some fun, musical education to Malta’s schools, teaching them about the day that Malta officially became a republic, ending the rule of Elizabeth II as Queen of Malta and the start of Sir Anthony Mamo’s role as the first President.

Repubblikgħana is not just a history lesson, though! It brings to the stage musical elements, both contemporary and traditional, like the iconic ‘għana’.

It will be taking place in schools from this week throughout the year, as part of the National Celebrations Foundation’s programme to mark the 50th anniversary of Malta becoming a Republic.

Repubblikgħana is written and directed by Jeremy Grech, an artist fluent in Maltese heritage, and produced by Teatru Malta, under the musical direction of Justin Galea, the frontman with the phenomenal voice from the popular local band, Djun. Participating artists also include George Curmi l-Pusè, Hannah Gatt, Andrew Vella Zarb, Marjann Attard, Josef Camilleri (Xarulù) and Bernard Curmi.

With Repubblikgħana on the programme, Malta’s students are in for a cultural treat this year!

How much do you know about Republic Day?