‘Kolbe’ – the new rock opera now in Malta

Following the huge success of the rock opera Kolbe some weeks ago in Gozo, the Maltese Province of the Franciscan Conventual Friars has invited the Don Bosco Oratory Theatre Company to stage the rock opera in Malta.

Kolbe is being produced on the occasion of the 75th anniversary from the death of St Maximillian Kolbe in Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland during World War II, as well as on the occasion of the centenary since the foundation of the Militia of the Immaculate, an international organisation founded by the same saint.

Kolbe is inspired by this hero’s staunch faith and his devotion to the Blessed Virgin. His story is entwined with the values of solidarity, inclusion, peace and freedom – values which are still pertinent to today’s society.

Kolbe is a two-hour non-stop musical production of song and dance performed by a 100-strong cast. The show includes different styles of music for singers and choirs, ranging from ballads to rock, folk and blues.

The main characters will be interpreted by Ruth Portelli, Mario Caruana, Jamie Camilleri and Lara Xerri Mompalao. Other singers include Sarah Bonnici, Maria Cassar, Fabian Galea, Angelica Portelli and Mario Portelli.

The original score of the rock opera is written by Italian songwriter Daniele Ricci, while vocal arrangements were left in the able hands of Mario Caruana and Evelyn Bonnici. Saviour Cremona is the artistic director.

Kolbe is being staged at the Catholic Institute Theatre, Floriana on Saturday, 22 April at 7.30pm. Although entrance is free, tickets may be reserved from the Catholic Institute Booking Office or else by phoning on 2123 8429. A donation, in aid of the Franciscan Friars Mission in Venezuela, will be kindly requested.