GEORGE MIZZI'S Experimental Theatre in Gozo

By Christopher Saliba

It is indeed surprising and admirable how theatrical productions in Gozo have become so popular with local and foreign residents alike. I am referring here most particularly to modern and experimental theatre, which has become in vogue in most important established theatres worldwide, including Malta. Due consideration should be given here to the Gozo Creative Theatre Club (GCTC), which in the last three years has regaled theatre enthusiasts with a string of challenging and successful productions.

The GCTC was founded by Mr. George Mizzi in 2003, with the objective of promoting an alternative creative approach to the more traditional and conventional theatre productions held at local level. Mr. Mizzi studied theatre in the United Kingdom and is a member of the ABTT (Association of British Theatre Technicians) and also a member of the NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association). He forms part of the Drama Unit within the Education Division and lectures at the Gozo School of Drama and at Stage Coach. With his experience and dedication towards modern theatre, Mr. Mizzi managed to gather a consistent group of students and ex-students from the Gozo School of Drama. Under his direction, they started exploring innovative and challenging forms of theatrical expression in unconventional and informal settings.

In fact, the group’s first performance was held in a disco club in order to render the context of a musical comedy by the Heater Brothers, called “A Slice of Saturday Night”, more actual and lively. The play revolved around the life of a young group in a disco club, and what could be more realistic than performing it in a real disco club? The performance was a huge success. Continuing with its experimental and innovative style, the GCTC went on to present “The Vagina Monologues”. This was another daring and challenging piece of theatre celebrating the female sexuality in all its complexity and mystery. This production was followed by “Confusions” by Alan Ayckbourn, a play consisting of five interlinking stories. Human drama and character complexities surfaced again. With a mix of comic and dramatic situations, the actors dealt with the difficulties in communicating with others.

Diverse, creative, stimulating and challenging plots are the key elements which distinguish the Gozo Theatre Creative Club. Mr. Mizzi, being a keen reader, is continuously searching for new sources to interpret on stage. “I try to find a play with a significant message. I look for a message that has a meaning in today’s society. We want to use our talents for the benefit of others.”

Apart from their acting role, the actors are assigned individually specific responsibilities in the running of the club, such as promotion, design, stage props, costumes, sponsorships and other requisites necessary for a successful production.
Another laudable effort achieved by the Gozo Theatre Creative Club is that of acquainting Maltese people with English residents in these cultural and social events. This explains why the plays are always in English. “We are a part of Europe and it is important to promote the English language,” Mr. Mizzi explains. Moreover, through theatre, the GCTC tries to create interactive situations between the actors and the audience by involving them in discussions. This is one reason why the club doesn’t perform in a theatre, in order to make these conversations and interactive instances easier. “In my opinion,” Mr Mizzi declares, “if someone is doing something and the other is watching, it’s enough to call it theatre.”

The Gozo Creative Theatre Club is a non-profit association. Everyone is welcome to join the association. “In our daily life, we are actors,” Mr Mizzi states. “Everyone wears a mask. But, through theatre, you can take it off. Theatre helps one communicate with others, to be more integrated.”

Theatre enthusiasts will not have to wait long to enjoy more of the GCTC productions. In fact, the group is already working on another challenging piece of theatrical work which is planned to be staged during the month of January. The play, “In Holland Stands a House” is about the story of a young Jewish girl, Anne Frank. It is based on the dairy she wrote during the Second World War while hiding from the Nazis. Primarily, it tackles issues such as hatred and racism.

The Gozo Creative Theatre Club is undoubtedly one of the most authentic artistic realities emerging from the sister island in recent years. Thanks to their regular creative performances, this group of actors managed to win the consideration of numerous local and foreign theatre lovers. People interested in joining the club or in getting information about future productions may contact the GCTC by e-mail to: gozocreative@yahoo.com