Opened in January 1968, Teatru Astra is an integral part of the larger musical organization, Soċjetà Filarmonika La Stella. Over the years, the theatre has hosted renowned international performers such as Raffaella Carrà, The Goggi Sisters, Al Bano and Romina Power, The Platters, Bobby Solo, Osibisa, the Montparnasse Ballet Troupe, as well as more recent acts like Nek, Amedeo Minghi, and the Ballet Classique de Paris. Besides world-class international stars, the management of the theatre has also actively supported and promoted local talent.
Featuring a seating capacity of approximately 1200, the venue offers two tiers of boxes flanking the theater, accompanied by a central balcony. The opulent red interiors, refurbished in 2005 post a 2003 fire incident, provide a welcoming ambiance.
Teatru Astra has earned praise for bringing a diverse range of performances to the Gozitan public, including operettas like Merry Widow, Principessa Della Czardas, The Goldoliers, The Great Waltz, Geisha, and others. The stage has also witnessed the presentation of works by literary giants such as Shakespeare, Goldoni, Ibsen, and Moliére.
In 1978, Teatru Astra embarked on a significant journey into opera production, starting with Rigoletto. The theatre has since showcased major operas by Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, Gaetano Donizetti, and other renowned composers. Audiences at Teatru Astra have had the privilege of experiencing world-class singers directly from prestigious venues like the Metropolitan Theatre in New York, Teatro alla Scala, and Sofia State Opera House. Notable performers include Ghena Dimitrova, Pamela Kucenic, Adelaide Negri, Francesca Patane, Joseph Calleja, Nicola Rossi-Lemeni, Aldo Protti, Mark Rucker, Rumen Doikov, Daniela Dessi', and Giuseppe Giacomini. Additionally, the Teatru Astra stage has served as the launchpad for the operatic careers of internationally acclaimed local artists such as Miriam Cauchi and Joseph Calleja.
In April 2016, Teatru Astra expanded its repertoire by venturing into the musical genre, starting with Grease, followed by record-breaking productions of Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sister Act, the Sound of Music and more.
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