The Eastern Region is proud to be recognized as the Region of Culture for 2024. This initiative aims to showcase the region’s unique cultural heritage through a year–long program of community outreach programs, events, and activities in collaboration with local councils, organizations, artists, and stakeholders. The extensive program throughout the year will provide numerous opportunities to actively engage with and appreciate the arts, local culture, and heritage, both in person and virtually. Join us as we prepare for a year–long celebration of our rich cultural heritage.
Introduction
For the year 2024, our Region has had the honour and responsibility of being the chosen Region of Culture in Malta and Gozo. It has been our mission and undertaking, as a result, to ensure that we grasped the opportunity to promote our region’s cultural heritage and to make the arts accessible to everyone. Under the vision of our Artistic Director, Mr. Daniel Cauchi, and supported by a team of passionate individuals namely our Executive Secretary Ms. Jeanette Galea and our Cultural Manager Mr. James Hamberger, I am beyond satisfied with what we have managed to achieve this year.
Our primary goal was to reach our communities through a varied and interactive calendar of events, making sure that every month the Region of Culture offered our communities something new. This is best reflected in our monthly outreach programs which were held in the heart of our communities. The aim behind these outreach programs was to hold small-scale, but qualitative, activities in each of the 12 localities that make up our region. On a monthly basis we also released video interviews of personalities from each locality, each telling a compelling story about the place they call home.
During our tenure as Region of Culture, we have made it a point to be open to work with everyone. We are proud of the fact that we have worked with various artists, NGOs, Voluntary Organisations, Local Councils and other Government entities in order to deliver on our ideals. We are also very proud of working with various PCOs, such as Teatru Malta and the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra.
I am also incredibly proud of the capital projects that have been launched this year. These projects were ambitious in their scope and implementation, but our Region has managed to see these dreams become realities. To name two of these projects, lVANt saw us travel the region with a mobile stage, taking different performances to our localities. We also published Tnax-il, a collection of 12 stories written by 12 different authors about our 12 localities. Each story was also translated into Maltese Sign Language to be as accessible as possible.
It is my wish that, moving forward, we continue to build on what we have achieved this year. Even though the torch now shall pass to Gozo as the next Region of Culture, our work and efforts will not stop.
Mr. Anthony Chircop
President of the Eastern Regional Council
The Team
Mr. Daniel Cauchi
Artistic Director
Ms. Jeanette Galea
Executive Secretary
Mr. James Hamberger
Cultural Manager
Events
Past Events
Xenografija Workshops 10th March (Children)
On Sunday 10th March, a Set Design Workshop for Kids was hosted at MSpace, Msida. Young minds collaborated and brought stories to life on stage through brainstorming ideas and designing fantastic worlds.
Xenografija – Set Painting Workshop
This hands-on workshop was organised for skilled individuals experienced in painting (artistic scenery/painting on different materials) who were interested in developing their skills further, particularly those who wanted to learn more about the art of set painting in performing arts productions.
Sessjoni ta’ Tisjir – Għadam tal-Mejtin
Fl-1 ta’ Novembru kellna sessjoni ta’ tisjir fejn l-applikanti tgħallmu kif isajjru l-Għadam tal-Mejtin u tghallmu iktar dwar it-tradizzjoni li hemm warajhom, din is-sessjoni kienet immexxija mill-Heritage Malta
Grand Grooves
Grand Grooves, an activity for grandparents and grandchildren!
Join us on Sunday, February 18, 2024, in Iklin at 11am for an engaging session focused on movement and music to foster bonding, connection, play, physical activity and fun.
A perfect way to create cherished memories that both grandparents and their grandchildren can look back on with joy.
Workshop tal-Platti tas-Smid (Semolina Plates Workshop)
On Monday, 25th March a special workshop on handcrafted semolina plates was held in connection with Holy Week. The session was led by Mr. Pawlu Muscat.
Għaqda u Arazzi (Collective Tapestry)
On Sunday 17th March, a tapestry session was held for Għaqda u Arazzi (Collective Tapestry) at Ġnien l-Istazzjon, Birkirkara.
Programm tal-Ġimgħa Mqaddsa
L-attivitajiet li saru matul il-Ġimgħa Mqaddsa fil-lokalitajiet tar-reġjun tagħna! Sabiex jitnaqqas l-iskart u jigi salvagwardjat l-ambjent, id-dettalji kollha ġew inklużi fil-PDF tal-kalendarju tal-Ġimgħa Mqaddsa tagħna mehmuż hawn.
Batucada
On the 21st of April, an interactive percussion workshop “Batucada” was hosted, diving into the rhythm of Brazil with Michael De Camargo. This energetic workshop was held at BMX Warehouse Pembroke, where we learned traditional Samba Enredo beats and arrangements.
Transient Variations
Transient Variations, an immersive installation project by Patrick Mifsud was organised from April 29th to May 3rd. This project, redefining perception of space and art, included the unveiling of a new masterpiece daily in diverse locations by Patrick himself.
Memorial Benches: Faces of Resilience
On Monday May 20th at 18:00 the Eastern Regional Council officially launched the ‘Memorial Benches – Faces of Resilience’ project at the Sliema Promenade (by Independence Gardens). This project formed part of our calendar of events for the ‘Region of Culture’ title and was led by the Artistic Director Mr. James Micallef Grimaud. The aim of this project was to honour the lives of women lost to violence in Malta’s recent history and raise awareness. This project will also serve as a build up to the Sliema Arts Festival.
Tnax-il
San Ġiljan L-ewwel storja ta’ Tnax-il teħodna fil-lokalità ta’ San Ġiljan. Hawn niltaqgħu ma’ Ġiljan, nannu għażiż, li jaqsam storja dwar żewġ sajjieda, Pietru u Ġużè. Se jirrealizza Ġużè l-importanza tal-ġenerożità qabel ma jkun tard wisq, jew se jibqa’ moħħu jaħdem għalih innifsu? Ta' Xbiex L-istorja li jmiss f’Tnax-il teħodna fil-lokalità tal-ambaxxati, Ta’ Xbiex. Miktuba [...]
Dance beyond borders
Dance Beyond Borders, a foundation dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion, and conflict resolution through activism for marginalised groups, including children, youth, asylum seekers, and older adults.
Tango Milongita
Three nights of dance experiencing the passion of Argentine Tango, ‘Tango Milongita’ took place on the 8th, 15th, and 22nd of May. The sessions were led by international tutors in collaboration with Teatru Salesjan.
Swieqi World Fair
The Swieqi World Fair – ‘Together in Diversity’ was held at the Swieqi Civic Centre on May 24th. A special international fair involving several nations and the local community, exploring cultures from around the globe with traditional Maltese games, vibrant performances, and special guest KANTERA.
Festa Fjuri
Għal Festa Fjuri konna preżenti flimkien ma’ Merill Rural Network, Antoine Tan-Newl u Bniet Bizzilla.
Kids’ Art, Dad at Heart
The event invited everyone to contribute to an artwork by leaving messages and drawings dedicated to fathers. Whether it was a heartfelt note, a beautiful drawing, or a simple doodle, contributions helped create a vibrant tapestry of love and appreciation.
lVANt X Villabianca Outreach Event
On July 21st, we organised an event with Villabianca to bring culture and children together at the European Council Garden, Gżira.
lVANt
Throughout July we brought artists and the community together through this project!
The Eastern Region of Culture’s performers van toured the island during July, entertaining everyone in its path!
Dance and Movement Therapy Session
On the 14th of August, we hosted a Dance and Movement therapy session for all the patients at Karin Grech Rehabilitation Centre in Pietà with live music playing throughout the event.
Tour of the Eastern Region
Join us for an immersive historical experience, featuring a blend of land and sea activities that bring history to life!
Capoeira Workshop
On the 29th of September we spent the morning learning Capoeira lead by Contra Mestre Alf on the Ta’Xbiex Promenade!
Capoeira is a Brazilian Martial Art which is a mix of self-defence with music, dance, & acrobatics, so we were sure to get your morning workout in 🤼.
Percussion Workshop
On the 25th of October, we will be holding a workshop for students of St. Clare College focusing on the traditional Maltese Tambourine! 🎶
This month’s outreach program is a closed event and is not open for the public to join.
Pastizzi Workshop
A unique experience during our Pastizzi Workshop ✨
Participants watched, learned, and tried all the techniques for making traditional Maltese pastizzi in our workshop led by Michela Cammarota Cefai! Michela, from ‘A Pastizzi Experience,’ had a wealth of experience in making pastizzi as well as teaching people how to make them. And you had the opportunity to learn from her!
Sessjoni ta’ Tisjir – Għadam tal-Mejtin
Fl-1 ta’ Novembru kellna sessjoni ta’ tisjir fejn l-applikanti tgħallmu kif isajjru l-Għadam tal-Mejtin u tghallmu iktar dwar it-tradizzjoni li hemm warajhom, din is-sessjoni kienet immexxija mill-Heritage Malta
Pasturi u Presepji Tradizzjonali Maltin
Join us and learn how to create traditional Maltese Cribs and Nativity Figures.
These workshops will be held from the 2nd of October till the 23rd of November at St Paul’s Church in Birkirkara.
Christmas Kids Crafts
During our final outreach program of the year, we got into the festive spirit with our Christmas Kids Crafts Session!
Participants joined us for a morning of creativity:
Decorated pots and planted Gulbiena to take home and grow.
Dove into Christmas-themed painting and crafts, from toilet roll art to heartfelt messages in a bottle.
It was the perfect way for kids to showcase their creativity and spread the holiday excitement!
Event Gallery
Artistic Collaborators
Ryan Galea
Through freelance work and collaborations with prestigious production houses, Ryan has built a rich portfolio in media production. His passion for storytelling shines in filmmaking, where his visual arts background adds depth to his creations. Alongside his performing talents, Ryan is a skilled visual artist, proficient in drawing and painting, with a knack for abstract compositions.
Patrick Mifsud
Patrick Mifsud is a Maltese artist based in London, UK, known for his site-specific installations and sculptures. His work explores minimal forms and materials, aiming to redefine architectural space and engage viewers' spatial awareness. Mifsud's drawings and paintings also reflect his exploration of space through simple compositions and geometric elements. He holds a BA (Hons) in Fine Art from the University for the Creative Arts, Canterbury, and an MA in Fine Art from Wimbledon College of Art, London.
Robert Spiteri
Robert is a professional drummer and drum tutor from Malta, immersed in the local music scene for two decades. Drumming for Clockwork Wolf & Co, Big Band Brothers, and Tribali, Robert graces stages both locally and internationally. As a drum tutor at 'The Box - a creative arts space,' he mentors aspiring musicians. His versatile beat extends to recording sessions, collaborations with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, and impactful contributions to local musical productions.
James Micallef Grimaud AKA Twitch
James Micallef Grimaud, also known as Twitch, is an award-winning artist recognized for his pioneering graffiti and large-scale murals in Malta. Starting his journey in the mid-nineties, Twitch earned the title of the pioneer of street art in Malta, utilizing walls and public spaces to express his creativity when canvases were beyond his reach.
Paul Muscat
The Good Friday exhibit began in 1984 with rice plates, later experimenting with salt in 1991. In 1994, he displayed salt plates in St. Helen's Parish Centre. In 2003, he created large squares, including the dome of St. Helen's Basilica and the largest semolina square featuring the last supper. In 2010, a memorable exhibit was held at San Anton Palace, featuring Caravaggio's famous painting of the Beheading of St. John.
Michael De Camargo
Michael is a seasoned Brazilian musician skilled in percussion, singing, and cavaquinho. With extensive experience in top bands in Rome and Madrid, he has been a pivotal figure in Malta's Brazilian music scene since 2015. Leading workshops and performances, including the renowned Samba Enredo "Batucada" ensemble, Michael brings energy and expertise to enrich participants' musical journeys. Join us for an immersive workshop experience led by this dynamic musician.
Pam Abela
Pam Abela, a curator for therapeutic spaces, combines her art and nursing expertise to enhance therapeutic environments. She uses workshops, site-specific art, and performances to create research-based interventions, integrating curating and nursing into a cohesive practice. Pam's Deep Shelter Project won Best Project in the Community at the Malta Arts Awards in 2019.
Dance Beyond Borders
Dance Beyond Borders, founded by dancers Julienne Schembri and Deborah Falzon, unites people through dance and the arts. Since January 2020, they have used dance as a medium for activism and change. Through performances and community projects, they foster empathy and understanding, collaborating with diverse communities, especially during Refugee Week Malta.
Ryan Galea
Through freelance work and collaborations with prestigious production houses, Ryan has built a rich portfolio in media production. His passion for storytelling shines in filmmaking, where his visual arts background adds depth to his creations. Alongside his performing talents, Ryan is a skilled visual artist, proficient in drawing and painting, with a knack for abstract compositions.
Patrick Mifsud
Patrick Mifsud is a Maltese artist based in London, UK, known for his site-specific installations and sculptures. His work explores minimal forms and materials, aiming to redefine architectural space and engage viewers' spatial awareness. Mifsud's drawings and paintings also reflect his exploration of space through simple compositions and geometric elements. He holds a BA (Hons) in Fine Art from the University for the Creative Arts, Canterbury, and an MA in Fine Art from Wimbledon College of Art, London.
Robert Spiteri
Robert is a professional drummer and drum tutor from Malta, immersed in the local music scene for two decades. Drumming for Clockwork Wolf & Co, Big Band Brothers, and Tribali, Robert graces stages both locally and internationally. As a drum tutor at 'The Box - a creative arts space,' he mentors aspiring musicians. His versatile beat extends to recording sessions, collaborations with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, and impactful contributions to local musical productions.
James Micallef Grimaud AKA Twitch
James Micallef Grimaud, also known as Twitch, is an award-winning artist recognized for his pioneering graffiti and large-scale murals in Malta. Starting his journey in the mid-nineties, Twitch earned the title of the pioneer of street art in Malta, utilizing walls and public spaces to express his creativity when canvases were beyond his reach.
Paul Muscat
The Good Friday exhibit began in 1984 with rice plates, later experimenting with salt in 1991. In 1994, he displayed salt plates in St. Helen's Parish Centre. In 2003, he created large squares, including the dome of St. Helen's Basilica and the largest semolina square featuring the last supper. In 2010, a memorable exhibit was held at San Anton Palace, featuring Caravaggio's famous painting of the Beheading of St. John.
Michael De Camargo
Michael is a seasoned Brazilian musician skilled in percussion, singing, and cavaquinho. With extensive experience in top bands in Rome and Madrid, he has been a pivotal figure in Malta's Brazilian music scene since 2015. Leading workshops and performances, including the renowned Samba Enredo "Batucada" ensemble, Michael brings energy and expertise to enrich participants' musical journeys. Join us for an immersive workshop experience led by this dynamic musician.
Pam Abela
Pam Abela, a curator for therapeutic spaces, combines her art and nursing expertise to enhance therapeutic environments. She uses workshops, site-specific art, and performances to create research-based interventions, integrating curating and nursing into a cohesive practice. Pam's Deep Shelter Project won Best Project in the Community at the Malta Arts Awards in 2019.
Dance Beyond Borders
Dance Beyond Borders, founded by dancers Julienne Schembri and Deborah Falzon, unites people through dance and the arts. Since January 2020, they have used dance as a medium for activism and change. Through performances and community projects, they foster empathy and understanding, collaborating with diverse communities, especially during Refugee Week Malta.
Stejjer mir-Reġjun
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