Sunrise Mass Performance at Mnajdra

A performance by Kormalta and Żfinmalta of Ola Gjeilo’s renowned Sunrise Mass for chorus and string orchestra conducted by Riccardo Bianchi at the prehistoric site of Mnajdra. The audience will witness sunrise from inside this UNESCO World Heritage site as the first rays of the rising sun light up a particular point in the South building just as it has done on the first day of summer for over 5000 years.

Sunrise Mass is an exceptionally light and moving piece; it conveys the composer’s modern and original take on the centuries-old tradition of sacred music. Ola Gjeilo notes that he wanted to present the traditional Latin text in a new way – the Sunrise Mass turns a remarkably bright, spacious, almost cosmic sound into one more worldly and rugged, while feelings of lightness are replaced by much more dramatic emotions.

Paolo Mangiola, Artistic Director of Żfin Malta will choreograph The Spheres (Kyrie) and Identity & The Ground (Sanctus / Benedictus & Agnus Dei) of the Sunrise Mass for the dancers of his renowned company. Positioned amongst this extraordinary setting, solos, duets and small groups will illuminate the opening and closing sections of the Mass with Mangiola’s trademark sophisticated and distinctive contemporary dance, the dancers slowly becoming visible as the sun illuminates the low slabs.

The number of tickets available is limited and booking is on a first come first served basis. Tickets are available from all Heritage Malta museums and sites, and online on shop.heritagemalta.org

Meeting point: 05:30am outside Ħaġar Qim Visitor Centre