In European Capital of Culture year, one would expect there to be a lot going on – especially when it comes to theatre and the arts. Thankfully, the industry hasn’t disappointed – with a plethora of options on every weekend, whether you fancy a play that’s light and comical or something a little more in-depth.

Among this weekend’s offerings is Henrik Ibsen’s En Folkefiende: An Enemy of the People, which I was lucky enough to watch last week. Adapted by Brad Birch (who is actually in Malta to watch the play, and speak at an after-show discussion on Sunday), it is a fast-paced, modern telling of an age-old story: who wins in the battle between business and honest journalism?

Running for 90 minutes in the comfortable Blue Box Theatre in Mdisa, this English-speaking production was an absolute powerhouse of entertainment – while also asking some very pressing (and rather depressing) questions of modern society. The cast were brilliant from start to finish, with particularly strong performances from Mikhail Basmadjan as Tom Stockmann, Antonella Axisa as Kate Stockmann, Philip Leone-Ganado as Aslaksen and Anthony Ellul as Peter Stockman, while Toni Attard’s direction was slick and interesting.

This retelling of Ibsen’s original – which dates back to 1882 – proves that, sadly, very little has changed in the fight between money and justice. As the author Birch says, “it is in these moments that we should start asking questions” – and this play certainly encourages you to do exactly that.

A chat with Philip Leone Ganado

Actor Philip Leone Ganado takes on the role of newspaper publisher in the piece. His part hits an interesting dynamic as Philip – a journalist himself in ‘real life’ – has to pick his fights carefully.

How have you enjoyed Enemy and what has been the response to it?
“Working with such an individually talented group of actors and creatives is always a huge pleasure. The play itself is current, provocative and startlingly relevant, and it’s been very satisfying to see audiences responding so positively to that.”

How would you describe the theatre scene in Malta?
“It’s becoming richer and more varied as time goes by. There’s a strong and enjoyable mix of styles and material, and while there are limitations, I think artists are becoming increasingly adept at developing material that turns those issues into unique strengths.”

Which is your favourite local theatre venue?
“St James Cavalier will always hold a special place for the beauty of the architecture and the many great plays that have been staged there over the years. I’m also a big fan The Splendid in Strait Street, a former brothel and now an incredible intimate and atmospheric performance space.”

Which would be your next must-see event on the calendar?
“I’m hugely looking forward to Hush at the Manoel Theatre, a new musical by Denise Mulholland and Luke Saydon, which looks really exciting and original (March 17-19). And I can’t not mention my own Much Ado About Nothing (April 22-May 2), the third in our series of Shakespeare plays staged at The Pub in Valletta.”

How would you spend a perfect day in Malta?
“Morning means a long lie-in, so no breakfast for me. Then lunch and white wine by the sea in Valletta or Marsaxlokk, up to Fomm ir-Rih or somewhere green for the afternoon, and then back to Valletta for dinner, a show and more wine.”