The Journey from a Story to a Musical: A Scriptwriting Masterclass by Martin Farrugia

In preparation for Mikiel Anton Vassalli College’s (MAVC) yearly production, this year’s multidisciplinary triptych L-Aħħar Bastiment: Stories from the Grand Harbour is preceded by a series of masterclasses which provided the opportunity for students to learn more about the behind-the-scenes of a professional theatrical production. Martin Farrugia – one of the production’s scriptwriters – delivers a masterclass on the craft of writing a script for a musical. These masterclasses are organised by the Department of Multidisciplinary Arts Studies within MAVC.

This directing masterclass was presented at the MAVC, Malta School of Drama and Dance and invited participants of various ages to engage in the art of storytelling, exploring how powerful narratives emerge from the interplay of character, conflict, and transformation. Mr Farrugia gave an introduction to key structural tools such as: the three-act framework, character arcs, and narrative turning points. He guided the 12 participants to discover how stories take shape on the page and come to life on stage and screen. Attention was also given to the subtleties of dialogue, subtext, and the shifting power dynamics between characters.

The session further explored the unique language of musicals, where music becomes the emotional heartbeat of the story. Using Les Misérables as a case study, participants reflected on how songs illuminate moments of confession, conflict, and collective voice within the dramatic art.

Overall, the masterclass encouraged participants to see storytelling as both craft and art; equipping them with creative tools and a deeper awareness of how narratives move, resonate, and endure.

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