The Basics of Playwriting: A Scriptwriting Masterclass by Simone Spiteri

In preparation for Mikiel Anton Vassalli College’s yearly production, this year’s multidisciplinary triptych L-Aħħar Bastiment: Stories from the Grand Harbour is preceded by a series of masterclasses which provide an excellent opportunity for students to learn more about the behind-the-scenes of a professional theatrical production. Simone Spiteri – one of the production’s scriptwriters – delivers a masterclass on the art of writing a script for the stage.

The playwriting masterclass presented by Mikiel Anton Vassalli College (MAVC) gathered a vibrant and diverse mix of 12 youths and adults at the Malta School of Drama and Dance for an introduction to the art of playwriting. Coming from backgrounds in theatre, music, and dance, participants were invited by Simone Spiteri to imagine their own characters and bring them to life through the creation of a simple scene. Although many had little or no experience writing for the stage, they embraced the process with curiosity and enthusiasm, exchanging ideas in small groups and as a collective while exploring practical approaches to crafting dialogue and shaping dramatic moments.

A particularly lively aspect of the workshop was the encouragement to write in one’s mother tongue. This opened a space for participants to express themselves with greater freedom and authenticity, allowing their voices to emerge more naturally. The creative power of multiple languages added an enriching dimension to the class, revealing how linguistic diversity can deepen storytelling and spark new creative possibilities within a collaborative environment.

L-Aħħar Bastiment – Stories from the Grand Harbour will be staged on Saturday 9 May 2026 at St. Agatha Auditorium, Rabat.

Admission is free, but tickets must be reserved in advance via: https://www.ticketline.com.mt/bookings/Shows.aspx?ProductionId=1293