Stella u Leone

This musical is based on the literary works of Mary Meylak, one of Malta’s most celebrated poets and the first recognised female voice in Maltese poetry. The production featured lyrics by Joe W. Psaila and an original musical score composed by Antoine Mercieca. Directed by George Mizzi, the musical brought Meylak’s poetry and storytelling to life on stage through a blend of drama, song, dance, and visual performance. Stella u Leone is a musical comedy that portrays the fanaticism and rivalry that existed—and still exists—in Victoria, Gozo, between the two band societies: La Stella and Leone. A romance blossomed between two young people—Leone, a handsome young man from the Mandraġġ district and a supporter of the Leone Band faction, and Stella, a young woman from the Ħara ta’ wara San Franġisk, a supporter of the La Stella Band faction. Naturally, storms and tempests erupted within both families. Even the Archpriest found himself caught in the middle, as he had ties to both sides. Yet, despite the many hardships they faced, the young couple remained steadfast, swimming against the tide, for love ultimately triumphed. In the end, the couple was married in the small chapel of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu in the village of Għarb—a site so cherished by the people of Malta and Gozo.