In ‘The Hothouse’ nothing is what it seems

All is set for the most topical black comedy of the year. Is-Serra, Teatru Malta’s production set to premiere on 26, 27, 28 and 29 April will focus on one of Malta’s most heated current debates: mental health. Written in 1958 and produced in 1980 − Harold Pinter’s black, menacing comedy, dealing with abuse in a mental health institution remains very relevant and relatable.

Is-Serra sheds an uncomfortable light on the casual inhumanity and corruption that festers deep within the bureaucratic foundations of institutional authority; a curious piece that reminds one of recent stories emerging from some local hospital’s cracks. “In the last year, there have been a number of testimonies of stories that are taking place in the corridors of local hospitals. We chose this controversial work by Pinter because we believe it’s great theatre and also to instigate a discussion about the subject,” says Sean Buhagiar, Teatru Malta’s artistic director.

The Hothouse is in fact penned by world renowned contemporary playwright Harold Pinter. This project is also part of The Classics Project, Teatru Malta’s long-term initiative towards translating, producing and publishing a modern classic a year. This year they’ve chosen to focus on Harold Pinter in commemoration of his 10th year death anniversary. With a superb translation by established playwright Simone Spiteri, the story is set in a state-run sanatorium where the socalled “patients” are actual social dissidents receiving various excruciating corrective treatments. The Maltese translation works like a charm, making the characters sound all too familiar.

Teatru Malta has chosen to combine the Young Director’s programme with this classic piece. In fact, Is-Serra will be directed by Teatru Malta’s young director for 2018, Andre’ Agius through the mentorship of renowned German professional theatre director Irene Christ and staged at Mount Carmel’s very own community theatre.

The cast includes local stalwarts like Victor Debono, who needs very little introductions and will take on the lead role of Roote, the mental institutions undermined and disrespected director who has lost control of himself and the very institute he represents. Other lead roles, Gibbs, the ambitious and overachieving mental institution employee, will be played by Mark Mifsud while Maria Buckle will take on the challenging role of the very shrewd Miss Cutts. The cast features a number of theatre favourites like Joe Depasquale, Anthony Ellul, Benjamin Abela and Kurt Castillo.

25% of all ticket sales of Is-Serra will also be donated to the Richmond Foundation.

For more information about tickets and show times phone on 2122 0255 or visit www.teatrumalta.org.mt. The humour is hilarious, the cast is outstanding, the subject is challenging and the production is a first on the island. Get your tickets fast, you’ll end up crying if you don’t.