The Ta’ Cangura – San Lawrenz Folk Group, launched two initiatives on Saturday, during a soiree held at the San Lawrenz Parish Hall, which was animated by Marcia Mizzi.

The announcement of the publication of a booklet – Legends from Gozo – that brings together unpublished legends compiled by George Pisani, was the first of the events. This publication was made possible thanks to the help and cooperation of Notary Paul George Pisani, the author’s son.The group also presented their new traditional Maltese costume, to be used by the dancers and those of the traditional Carnival dance, better known as “il-Kummittiva.’

Attending the launching event were Dr Grazia Mercieca representing the Minister for Gozo; the Mayor of San Lawrenz, Anton Cassar; the Parish Priest, Fr Charles Sultana; Dr Paul George Pisani, the late author’s son; members of the Folk Group and various villagers.

The younger members of the group entertained those present by performing a number of traditional dances.

Two commemorative speeches were delivered by Noel Formosa, the coordinator of the project who outlined the motivating drives which led to the realisation of this initiative and by Dr Grazia Mercieca, who on behalf of Minister Refalo, spoke about the value of voluntary work and it’s concrete results to the benefit of society at large, of which Ta’ Cangura – San Lawrenz Folk Group are a living testimony.

The evening was compered by Marica Mizzi, who accompanied by Joe Cassar, read out excerpts from some of the published legends to the audience.

Following the official presentation of the new book to Annie Formosa and Mariella Theuma, President and Secretary respectively of the Ta’ Cangura Folk Group, the rest of the members especially the dancers of the traditional carnival dance known as ‘il-Kummittiva’ paraded along the hall in their new costumes, allowing those present a first glimpse of the complete look.

The locality of San Lawrenz, in the westernmost part of the island, is not only endowed with particular areas of natural beauty like Dwejra Bay, but also by typical aspects that distinguish it from other rural villages in Malta and Gozo.

Notably amongst these is “il-Kummettiva,” a traditional Carnival dance re-introduced in the village last October after an absence of decades.

Through the assistance of EU funds provided under the LEADER programme and the professional research of Claire Bonavia, Ta’ Cangura – San Lawrenz Folk Group specially designed the typical Maltese costume to be worn for this, and other occasions.

A major part of this project is co-financed by the European Union through the LEADER Project, a programme for Sustainable Rural Development in Malta, 2007 – 2013. These funds are made possible through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, 80% of which is financed by the EU and 20% by the Maltese Government.

Other information and further details about the group can be found on their facebook page or by sending an email to ta_cangura@mail.com.

Photographs: MGOZ/George Scerri

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