Description of the attraction
One of the oldest entertainment venues in Europe, the Manoel Theater appeared in Valletta in 1731. Funds for its construction were allocated by the Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Villena, after whom the theater was later named. De Vilhena, building the theater, took care of his knights. From now on, members of the Order of Malta could attend performances in their free time. Above the main portal of the Manoel Theater, the motto "For honest rest and entertainment" is carved.
The theater building was built very quickly. A place for him was allocated in a quiet, narrow street. The first performance took place here on January 9, 1732. Some of the Hospitaller Knights were involved in the performance. Much has changed since then. The most famous artists and musicians performed on the stage of the Manoel Theater. The small hall for 600 seats has amazing acoustics. It is said that in the last row one can hear the rustling of the conductor's score pages. This acoustics was achieved by placing large open containers of water under the floor of the auditorium.
For some time, the theater building housed a shelter for beggars. During the Second World War, they hid here from bombing.
Nowadays, the theater has been expanded to include the premises of the neighboring Bonichi Palace. In 2005, the auditorium and courtyard were reconstructed, where a cozy cafe was opened. There is also a museum at the theater, the exposition of which tells about the history of this institution. Old posters, photographs, theatrical costumes and sets, portraits of the leading actors of the past are kept here.
