"We need to make the performing arts more relevant to society by integrating them and strengthening their role in the work being done in hospitals, elder care homes, schools, and communities—ultimately enhancing their value and impact."
– Prof. Philip Ciantar, Director of the School of Performing Arts
He said this on the occasion of the 11th Annual Conference organised by the University’s School of Performing Arts, which took place between 5 and 7 March 2025, and which brought together artists and researchers from across the globe to the Valletta Campus to discuss ‘Participation, Engagement and Creativity in the Performing Arts’.
Increasing audience participation is one of the main ways this can be done – something which is being explored through innovative approaches such as the use of AI and interactive performances.
Dr Jeremy Coleman stressed on the need to entice rather than coerce people into the industry, something that is not just true about the arts but in any other space.
Keynote speakers Dr Funmi Adewole Elliott, senior lecturer in Dance studies at De Montfort University Leicester, Prof. Dr Alicia de Bánffy-Hall, professor of music in social work / community music at the University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf, and Prof. Dr Peter W. Marx, Chair for Media and Theatre Studies at the University of Cologne, each contributed to the discussion, talking about incorporating diverse voices and representing a wider range of perspectives, as well as engaging with technology to resonate more with modern sensibilities.
With a wide range of panels and workshops, the conference explored the intersections of dance, theatre, and music, examining how these art forms contribute to well-being, education, and social change. It was discussed that educating the generation about the relevance of art can foster a deeper connection to societal issues.
The official page of the Conference can be found online.
Day 1 Photos:
Day 2 Photos:
Day 3 Photos:
