Malta’s 1st Ever Mobile Stage lVANt Successfully Wraps Up

Aug 6 2024

The Eastern Regional Council successfully wraps up the lVANt project, marking a milestone as Malta’s first-ever mobile stage initiative. From July 3rd to July 23rd, lVANt, showcased local artists across twelve localities in the Eastern Region. This initiative was notable not only for introducing Malta’s first mobile stage but also for being the first eco-friendly performance experience on a moving stage, utilizing battery-operated technology. The project delivered diverse performances to various communities, creating a unique and impactful cultural experience.

Organized by President Anthony Chircop, Executive Secretary Jeanette Galea, and Artistic Director Daniel Cauchi, lVANt set a new standard in entertainment. Inspired by the convenience of food delivery services, lVANt brought performances directly to communities, with a name that cleverly reflected its mobile nature. The sound and lighting systems for the performances were remotely controlled to maximize space and efficiency. Additionally, the van featured a custom-designed side structure for mounting equipment, enhanced acoustics, and a branded curtain, with the entire van being tailor-made for this innovative project.

The tour featured a stellar lineup of performers, including The Travellers, Subversive Collection, Skald, Krista Sujak, Reb and Jon, David Cauchi, Klinsmann, Chanel Monseigneur, Keith Kiko Muscat, Liam Mizzi Peplow, Gilbert Gauci, Lyndsay Pace, Tal-Fuklar Folk Group, and Red Electric. Comedian Matthew Sant Sultana added a touch of humour to the performances. Highlights included special outreach programmes with Villa Bianca and engaging performances with Skola Sajf, showcasing the project’s dedication to connecting with various community groups and creating unique cultural experiences, especially for younger audiences.

The feedback from participants and audiences was highly positive, with many artists praising the initiative on social media. Key themes included appreciation for the project’s innovative concept, with terms like “successful,” “amazing platform,” and “fantastic opportunity” frequently mentioned. Artists highlighted the project’s eco-friendly approach, noting the use of “renewable energy” and “battery-operated” technology. There was widespread recognition of the event’s role in promoting local talent, fostering community spirit, and creating unique cultural experiences. Terms such as “vibrant,” “supportive,” and “well-organized” underscored the overall impact and success of the lVANt project.

The Eastern Regional Council remains committed to supporting local arts and culture, building on the success of the lVANt project. As part of their ongoing efforts since being awarded the Region of Culture title for 2024, the Council is planning further monthly outreach programmes and projects throughout the year, with the aim to continue enriching the cultural landscape of the region until December 2024.

For more information and updates on upcoming events, visit https://www.regjunlvant.com/ or follow the Eastern Regional Council on Facebook.

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Qala Mayor Urges Authorities Investigate Ħondoq Bay Slime

Aug 6 2024

Qala mayor Paul Buttiġieġ has issued a call to authorities and fish farm operators to investigate after slime appeared at the popular Ħondoq Bay in recent days.

He suspects the slime originated from a fish farm near St Paul’s Bay, Times of Malta reported.

Times of Malta reported that he has been informed that fish farm operators had assured him they would send someone to investigate the issue.

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New Possible Evidence For Filfla Chapel

Aug 6 2024

Arnold Sciberras, known as “The Exterminator,” and Jeffrey Sciberras have presented intriguing evidence about the mysterious chapel on Filfla, a small islet south of Malta.

The chapel, believed to date back to the 14th century, was used as a place of worship and refuge for stranded fishermen.

Although it was deconsecrated in 1575 and reportedly destroyed by an earthquake in 1856, physical evidence of the chapel’s existence has long been elusive, especially after the islet was heavily bombed by military forces in recent history.

During a 2013 scientific visit to Filfla, the Sciberras brothers discovered several globigerina stone slabs on the plateau, which they suggest could be remnants of the chapel.

This discovery challenges the long-held belief that the chapel was located in a cave. They also found a freshwater spring on the northern side of the island, supporting unique mollusc species.

Adding to the mystery, a visitor to one of their educational trips revealed he possessed a large key, inherited from his father-in-law who served at the nearby Xutu Tower in the 1970s, which he believes could be from the chapel.

The Sciberras brothers hope this key can eventually be authenticated to further illuminate the history of Filfla’s chapel.

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Simone Biles Highlights Importance Of Mental Health

Aug 6 2024

American legend and of the greatest gymnasts to ever do it, Simone Biles has highlighted the importance of mental health in her successful conquest for yet another gold medal in gymnastics.

This comes after her shocking withdrawal from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to her mind and body not being in sync and to further improve on her mental wellness.

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A post shared by Simone Biles (@simonebiles)

She later further explained that she felt disorientated in her own body and therefore did not feel confident enough to compete in Tokyo.

Paris has been a whole different story, with Biles back to her best with her winning 3 golds and 1 silver this Olympics.

To her 11.6 million followers, Biles shared a photo of her meditating on the bench ahead of her floor routine stating that “mental health is matters”.

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