COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on several sectors and locally and abroad, and the Maltese artistic and performing arts community has been hard hit.
With the majority of local performers finding themselves out of work, recently announced safety measures for live performances have not eased the situation, rendering it impossible for independent producers to create a financially viable or sustainable live performance.
This has led Comedy Knights – the popular comedy troupe behind the annual Christmas show – to unite independent Maltese performers, artists and creative practitioners in a special online showcase and fundraising event in aid of the cultural scene.
Artists You Knighted will be a live-streamed marathon event hosted by the Comedy Knights on 6th June 2020.
From relative newcomers to the biggest names in Maltese entertainment, the event will see performers come together and showcase elements of their work live from their own home or workspace. During the event, the public will have the opportunity to comment, ask questions and interact with the performers as well as donate money to support these artists.
Half of all proceeds will go to the performers, with the rest going towards setting up an NGO with the aim of uniting local performing artists in their support of one another over the long-term.
Donations will be received by FTZ Community Foundation – a not-for-profit foundation through ticketline.com.mt – and will be audited by an independent auditor to ensure that all funds are used appropriately and as promised.
“These are difficult times for everyone, but it increasingly seems like the performing arts industry will be among the hardest hit, taking the longest to return to its pre-COVID days,” says producer Wesley Ellul. “Some experts believe that theatres will not re-open until 2021 at the earliest.
Confirmed performers taking part in the livestream event include Tony Award Nominated & American Idol Finalist Constantine Maroulis, the Comedy Knights, Danusan, Min Imissu, Moveo Dance Company, Studio 18, Gaia Cauchi, Kevin Paul Calleja, Warren Bonello, West End Performer Colin Zammit Lupi, Joe Rosco, Peter Borg from Red Electrick, Contact-Dance, Cikku l-Poplu, Nico Darmanin, Maltese Motion and many others.
Artists You Knighted will be produced by The Comedy Knights on 6th June 2020. For more information visit www.artistsyouknighted.com.
Main Image:Constantine Maroulis
