The Astra and Aurora Theatres in Victoria have received almost €100,000 each from the NGOs scheme launched by the Ministry for Gozo associated with the plan of action 2010-2012 on eco-Gozo.

The Ministry for Gozo said the funds for the La Stella Philharmonic Society project will be used for the restructuring of key facilities within the Astra Theatre where, in October, it will be presenting the opera Norma as part of the Festival Mediterranea. Currently work is taking place on the restructuring and renovation of the stage

The Leone Philharmonic Society project funds are going to be used extensively in a project to replace the current roof which is made of asbestos cement corrugated sheets with prepainted galvanised insulated corrugated sheets. The roof will also have photovoltaic panels installed. Half the roof has already been completed. The Ministry said that the work is expected to be finished in time for the theatre to hold the opera Tosca on the 15th of October.

The Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, visited both theatres to view the ongoing work. The Minister said that the objectives related to the initiatives of these projects comply with the measures proposed in the plan of action for eco-Gozo on the cultural identity of the island. The Minister added, that the projects have a significant role in developing the great potential of people living on the island and in attracting quality tourism to Gozo.

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