Malta Book Festival to bring Maltese children’s books to life through theatre

Young readers will have the opportunity to experience Maltese literature in a different way at this year’s Malta Book Festival, with three theatrical productions inspired by books for children and teenagers.

Organised by the National Book Council, the Festival will take place at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre in Ta’ Qali between the 4th and 8th November. The programme celebrates books and reading through a variety of experiences, including theatre adaptations designed to introduce younger audiences to local literary works.

Adapted and staged by More or Less Theatre under the artistic direction of Maltese theatre-maker Malcolm Galea, the shows cater to three different age groups.

“Adaptations of books, whether as plays, films, TV shows or musicals always add to the visibility of the original text and after experiencing a book in 45 minutes, kids are more likely to read the book and experience the full story,” Malcolm Galea said.

The programme opens with Glenda u l-Magna tal-Granita, adapted from Claudia Aloisio’s picture book for children aged five to eight. The story follows Glenda as she discovers the magical secrets of an old granita machine gifted to her by her grandmother.

For ages eight to 12, Irvin Vella – Il-Każ tal-Bottegin tax-Xorti, based on John A. Bonello’s novel, invites audiences to help solve a mysterious break-in at a fortune teller’s shop. The interactive production encourages children to investigate clues and identify the main suspect.

Meanwhile, Ella, adapted from Rita Grech’s novel for teenagers aged 12 to 16, offers a modern Maltese twist on Cinderella, exploring themes of bereavement, family relationships and growing up.

All three productions will be staged on the 4th, 7th and 8th November at 10am, 2pm and 6pm respectively.

Admission is free, but registration through Eventbrite is required.

Will you be attending this year’s Malta Book Festival?