Gozo is truly an island of music and surprises. It’s no surprise that this tiny island is believed to have the most opera houses per square kilometre in the world. Astonishingly, these two opera houses stand just 200 metres apart on the same street in Victoria. Given the passion and friendly rivalries that run deep in Gozo’s village festas, it follows that both opera houses constantly seek to outshine each other. The real winners here are opera lovers.
The Origin and History: From Island Inspiration to International Acclaim
Gozo’s love of opera has roots deeply entwined with Maltese history. Opera first graced Malta in 1631 when Italian musicians and singers performed at the Auberge d’Italie in Valletta for the Knights of Saint John. Over a century later, the Manoel Theatre staged its first opera on 19 January 1732. The Royal Opera House followed in 1866, doubling Manoel’s capacity, but tragically it was destroyed during a bombing raid in 1942.
After World War II, Malta’s operatic leadership passed to Gozo, where it continues to thrive. A vital part of this story lies in Gozo’s vibrant band clubs, especially the two oldest: Soċjetà Filarmonika Leone and Soċjetà Filarmonika La Stella, both founded in 1863. Band clubs have played a crucial role culturally and socially in Malta and Gozo, beginning as musical societies supporting village festas and bringing communities together through music.
Both Teatru Astra and Teatru tal-Opra Aurora grew from this rich tradition. Teatru Astra opened in 1968, evolving from the Astra Band Club’s social hall into a treasured theatre for concerts, drama, and later opera. Aurora was built in 1976 by the Leone Philharmonic Society as a larger, purpose-built opera house, supported by local musicians, craftsmen, and volunteers.
Majestic Venues in Harmony and Contrast
Both opera houses blend history and grandeur beautifully. Teatru tal-Opra Aurora, Gozo’s largest indoor venue, seats around 1,600. Its elegant auditorium features classic boxes and remarkable interior artwork including 60 hand-painted pieces by Maltese artist Emvin Cremona, inspired by traditional Gozitan lace. Teatru Astra, opened eight years earlier in 1968, is equally impressive with approximately 1,200 seats spread across stalls, a central balcony, and two tiers of boxes flanking the auditorium. Both venues offer superb acoustics and sightlines that ensure every seat provides a memorable experience.
Gozo Opera: A High Brow Rivalry
Rivalry weaves through Maltese culture—from sports to church architecture and fireworks. This spirit is captured perfectly by the term pika (pronounced pee-ka), meaning a deep-seated competitiveness. On an island so small that neighbours easily keep an eye on each other, the desire to surpass friends and rivals is strong. Villages vie to set national and world records, such as the largest strawberry roly-poly or the biggest firework wheel.
This competitive spirit extends to Gozo’s two opera houses. Their close physical proximity fuels a friendly but spirited contest to raise the bar year after year. They compete for the most stunning staging, strongest casts, and most imaginative designs. This battle improves the opera experience for audiences while keeping ticket prices accessible.
Some memorable highlights of this rivalry include Aurora staging La Traviata and La Bohème on consecutive days in 1977, and Astra’s back-to-back productions of Rigoletto and The Barber of Seville in 1978. One of the most amusing episodes, and my personal favourite, came in 1999 when Astra planned to include a live horse on stage during Aida, prompting Aurora to respond with two live horses for their production. Astra’s embrace of musicals began in 2016 with a production of Grease, adding a vibrant new dimension to Gozo’s arts scene and drawing wider audiences.
Both theatres remain committed to making opera accessible. Outreach programmes, workshops, and family-friendly events extend beyond the stage into Victoria’s streets, with open-air performances and interactive activities. During opera season, Republic Street glows decorated with chandeliers, buzzing with excitement as locals and visitors—including the Prime Minister and President—gather in their finery to celebrate.
2025 Season Highlights: Upcoming Productions
- Teatru tal-Opra Aurora: Opens the season on 11 October with Verdi’s dramatic La Forza del Destino, featuring the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and a talented international and local cast. Tickets start at €55; box seats at €75. Premium boxes for four include champagne or wine and butler service, priced at €500.
- Teatru Astra: Presents Puccini’s thrilling Tosca on 23 and 25 October, promising soaring vocals, stunning sets, and gripping drama. Tickets range from €55 (balcony) to €100 (box).
Each production is the result of months of preparation, delivering outstanding musical direction, creative staging, and brilliant performances that linger long after the curtain falls.
Where to Stay
To savour your opera visit fully, consider staying overnight or longer. Victoria offers many welcoming and stylish options within a short walk of the theatres:
- The Dukes Boutique Hotel: Perfectly located on Republic Street between the two opera houses to soak in the festive atmosphere.
- Casa Gemelli Boutique Guesthouse: Individual, beautifully restored suites in a charming townhouse.
- Battistini Boutique Living Hotel and Spa: Boutique-style comfort and wellness in town centre.
- Townhouse 17 Boutique B&B and Maria Rosa Suites provide delightful, centrally located stays.
Dining for a Performance Night
A night at the opera deserves excellent dining before or after the show. In Victoria, favourites include:
- Neolitik Kitchen & Lounge: Fine dining in a modern, relaxed setting.
- Maldonado Bistro: Cosy, historic, with a celebrated Mediterranean menu and wine list.
- Ping’s Dynasty Sushi & Chinese Restaurant: For Asian cuisine lovers seeking a serene atmosphere.
Experience Opera, Gozo-Style
What makes Gozo’s opera season truly special is its warmth and community spirit. Visitors aren’t just audience members but friends and fellow enthusiasts. Whether enjoying a glittering premiere, lively street performances, or admiring sets crafted by local hands, the season is a celebration of shared passion and culture. Opera on Gozo is the perfect autumn treat for music lovers, culture seekers, and curious travellers.
Book early, stay longer, and let Gozo’s culture, cuisine, and charm sweep you away.
FAQ
When is the Gozo opera season held each year?
Opera season in Gozo is in October every year. The actual performance dates will change yearly so make sure to check the websites for Teatru Astra and Teatru Aurora for the latest programme.
How to buy tickets for Opera on Gozo
Tickets sell fast, so early booking is recommended. Purchase through official theatre websites or contact box offices directly. Both offer convenient online booking and friendly customer support.
Is there a dress code for Opera in Gozo?
Yes! Both Teatru Astra and Teatru Aurora require formal attire for their opera performances. Perhaps Aurora sums it best, ‘You can never be over-dressed for an opera at the Aurora’.
For other shows at the theatres, more casual attire is fine.
What other shows can I see at the opera houses
All sorts! Both Gozo Opera Houses regularly put on other performances, from concerts to musicals and pantomines!
Are Gozo’s opera performances family-friendly and accessible to newcomers?
If your children already love opera, there’s no reason not to bring them along. If you want to introduce them to it, then we suggest exploring the rest of the month’s programme of open-air shows and workshops.
Are Gozo's Opera Houses Accessible?
Yes, both Opera Houses offer assistance to those who need it. Contact them in advance so that they can plan how to best meet your needs.
What are the Operas in Gozo for 2025?
For the 2025 Gozo Opera Season, Teatru Aurora is performing La Forza del Destino (11 Oct). Teatru Astra is staging Tosca (23 & 25 Oct).
If you want to get ahead for 2026, Turandot will play at Teatru Astra (30 May).