Nestled amidst the busy streets of Gżira, Malta, the Orpheum Theatre stands as a silent testament to a bygone era. With its majestic Art Nouveau architecture complemented by Spanish features, this historic building has, over the decades, become a cultural symbol in the locality. Despite its grandeur, the theatre's beauty is strikingly juxtaposed against the less prestigious surroundings—parked cars, old houses, and the ever-present construction sites. Today, it is a rarely used but treasured monument, awaiting its return to the spotlight.
Early History and Design
The Orpheum Theatre was commissioned in 1932 by Felix Gerada, a Maltese developer with ties to both Malta and Detroit. Designed by Maltese architect Harold J. Borg, who was only in his early twenties at the time, the theatre is an exemplary piece of Art Nouveau, one of the few on the island. Borg infused the theatre’s design with Spanish influences, making the Orpheum a unique architectural landmark in Malta.
The initials "FG," carved onto the theatre’s façade, serve as a subtle nod to Gerada, who purchased the land from the Marquis Desain to develop this project. The building’s intricate carved reliefs are attributed to sculptor Alfredo Azzopardi, a renowned artist who had previously worked on prominent Maltese landmarks such as Balluta Buildings and Msida Parish Church.
The theatre’s interior, although it has seen little use in recent years, remains a stunning example of early 20th-century design. Its flat-floored stalls, single balcony, and ornate blue stage, decorated with copper-colored columns, embody the charm of classic cinema and theatrical spaces of the time. Notably, the ceiling is adorned with a painting of Orpheus, the legendary musician from Greek mythology, created by Raphael Bonnici Calì—a work that played a significant role in the Orpheum’s designation as a Grade 1 listed building in 2001.
The Orpheum in Its Prime: From Films to World-Class Performances
In its heyday, the Orpheum was much more than just an architectural wonder; it was a thriving cultural hub. Initially designed to function as both a theatre and a cinema, it became a beacon for various performances, from cinematic showings to concerts by world-renowned artists.
In March 1950, the Orpheum played host to Italian tenor Tito Schipa, who performed over two nights to a packed audience. A few weeks later, soprano Maria Caniglia graced the same stage, supported by Maltese tenors Oreste Kirkop and Paul Asciak. In 1953, British conductor Sir Malcolm Sargent led the Royal Marines Band Service in a Coronation Concert, marking another milestone in the theatre's illustrious history.
Throughout the 1950s, the Orpheum continued to attract significant talent. Italian singer Claudio Villa performed in May 1954, followed by Luciano Tajoli, who gave five performances in 1955. In June 1958, Italian star Domenico Modugno took the stage, singing his international hit “Nel blu dipinto di blu,” a performance fondly remembered by Maltese audiences.
As cinema began to decline in popularity, the Orpheum adapted to new cultural trends. In 1993 or 1994, the theatre became the unlikely venue for one of Malta’s first spontaneous pride parties—an event that was abruptly halted by police intervention, but which remains a significant moment in the country’s LGBTQ+ history. Two years later, the legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath, led by Tony Iommi, performed at the Orpheum as part of their Forbidden tour. The venue even appeared in a music video by the band, further cementing its place in popular culture.
The Orpheum Theatre has continued to serve as a venue for notable performances also in recent years. On February 11, 2017, the former Wolfsbane and Iron Maiden vocalist, performing as a solo artist, took to the stage as part of his World Tour 2017. A few months later, on May 19, Italian symphonic death metal band Fleshgod Apocalypse electrified the audience during their King Tour.
A Modern-Day Relic
There is hope for the future of the Orpheum Theatre. In 2016, a comprehensive theatre catalogue was commissioned by Valletta 2018 (V18), shedding light on the condition of Malta’s theatres. The report highlighted the urgent need for restoration, and the Gżira Local Council has since announced plans to restore the theatre to its former glory. However, no definitive timeline has been set for these works, leaving the theatre’s fate in limbo.
Still, the Orpheum’s potential as a cultural venue remains undeniable. With its 1,200-seat capacity and its grand architectural features, the theatre could once again become a hub for performance art, cinema, and concerts. It stands as one of the few surviving large single-screen cinemas in Malta, a rarity that adds to its historical and cultural value.
Dénouement
The Orpheum Theatre in Gżira is not just a building; it is a cultural icon that has witnessed some of the greatest performances in Malta’s history. From operatic tenors to heavy metal legends, the theatre’s stage has been graced by talents from across the world. While it now lies dormant, its majestic Art Nouveau architecture and rich legacy keep it in the hearts of many. As plans for its restoration take shape, one can only hope that this historic gem will soon shine brightly once again, offering a new generation the opportunity to experience its unique charm.
Bibliography:
Joanna Demarco, The Art Nouveau Gem Hidden in Gżira Has Hosted Some Big Names!
Mp3.com, Teatru Orpheum
Wikipedia, Orpheum Theatre (Malta)
Valletta 2018, Spazju Teatrali: A Catalogue of Theatres in Malta and Gozo (2016)
Theatre photos – Vassallo History, a project mamaged by the website vassallomalta.com
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