Manoel Theatre has appointed Adrian Mamo as its new Artistic Director, with effect from April.

The news was revealed by the Times of Malta on Friday, and confirmed by Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici when asked for comment.

Mr Mamo, who is a Lecturer within the Department of Theatre Studies at University of Malta and President of voluntary arts institution Malta Society of Arts, will be replacing Kenneth Zammit Tabona.

Mr Zammit Tabona, who is also Artistic Director at Festivals Malta, held the position at Manoel Theatre since 2013. However, his final few years in charge were marred by controversy as two years ago Manoel Theatre opened a vacancy for the position, yet it was then withdrawn just hours later. Another call for an Artistic Director was issued, yet this stalled.

Minister Bonnici said that the decision was taken after around 18 applicants for the open call were received.

“Theatre has been part of my life since I was very young. I find the theatre to be my second home,” Mr Mamo said following his appointment.

“I look forward to working with different artists to work on productions and theatre pieces where people are represented,” he added.

“It is a privilege to be in this role and working in the theatre carries a huge responsibility. I look forward to the challenge,” he concluded.

While he is an Architect by profession, he has had an extensive career within the local arts and entertainment industry, having designed over 50 stage sets for various local theatre companies and agencies, including classic and contemporary plays, musicals, pantomimes and concerts. Mr Mamo was also Co-Founder and Producer of VOICES, a local music event held every two years between 1991 and 2016.

Social image: Manoel Theatre / AP Valletta