ZARARTI

My Country's Arts Blossoms*

A Maltese cultural organisation advancing the arts through production and discourse. We curate high-end theatrical performances, cinematic narratives, exhibitions and events that challenge and inspire the cultural landscape, locally and beyond.

About Us

*Meaning of
ZARARTI

ZARARTI is a composite name made up of fragments of Maltese words. ‘ZAR’ (written żahar) means blossoms and ‘ARTI’ could mean either 'my country' or 'the arts'.

This inspired our tagline 'My Country's Arts Blossoms' which forms an integral part of our logo.

What we do

ZARARTI is involved in a variety of areas including theatrical, cinematic and television works, talks, workshops, exhibitions and publications.

Theatre

ZARARTI is dedicated to advancing artistic production and fostering community growth, by staging a mix of classic, modern and original works.

Workshops & Talks

Lectures and presentations on a variety of subjects - from Commedia dell'Arte to Caravaggio's Life and Works - theatre workshops and writing courses.

Cinema

Documentary and narrative film projects that bridge the gap between artisanal craftsmanship and contemporary story-telling.

Exhibitions

Organised displays of works by local and international photographers and visual artists, from established names to absolute beginners.

Television

Curated television series and digital content that explore the intersection of high-end production and intellectual exchange.

Publications

ZARARTI contributes to the local bookshelf by publishing select plays and other art-related works, both in Maltese and in English.

Cast of 'Sitt Xhur Nieqes Jum' with director

Cast of ;Il-Wirt tal-Imħabba' with director

July 31, 2026

Forum Theatre in Harbour Towns: ZARARTI staged two original forum theatre pieces in different localities around Valletta's harbour area as part of the Nexus project spearheaded by the Port Regional Council. 'Sitt Xhur Nieqes Jum' (Six Months Less One Day) was written and directed by Michael Piscopo and deals with the housing problems faced by low income families. 'Il-Wirt tal-Imħabba' (The Legacy of Love) was written and directed by Frederick Camilleri and deals with the repercussions of drug addiction on an entire family. Both productions, each performed four times, were well attended and elicited a healthy discussion on the themes covered in the plays, with the active participation of the audiences that included local council representatives, social workers and the general public.

February 25, 2026

An Evening of Memories: On the occasion of the World Day for Commedia dell'Arte, ZARARTI held a special event at Valletta Design Cluster. The evening included presentations by Narcy Calamatta and Marvic Doughty, and a performance of a scene from 'Love Potion for Pantalone' by the ZMCA Youth Ensemble.

December 12, 2025

What's The Buzz?: ZARARTI Management Committee member Michael Piscopo was recognised during a recent event organised by the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee. Michael wrote and composed two songs for children: one about the Maltese Honey Bee and one about the six national species of Malta.

December 09, 2025

Hot Off The Press: Frederick Camilleri who sits on ZARARTI's Management Committee,recently launched his new book 397: The story of Emanuel Camilleri who was found guilty of a crime he did not commit and spent three hundred and ninety-seven days behind bars.

December 08, 2025

Congratulations! ZARARTI's Founder/President Narcy Calamatta received the Artistic Journey Award during the 2025 Arts Awards organised by the Malta Arts Council. A well-deserved recognition for a lifetime's contribution to the arts. Well done Narcy!