Ostentation and celebration at the Maltese outdoor festa

Abstract

The word 'festa' brings to mind a special time, set apart from the rest of the year, which is a focal point in the life of a parish. It is the bringing together of those who identify themselves as belonging to a particular community, through the celebration of the community's patron saint. Though the saint would appear to be the focus of attention, and everything is done to proclaim the saint's glory and greatness, in reality the celebration is a way for the community to celebrate itself, its importance and distinction. All that contributes towards making the festa bigger and better serves the ulterior purpose of throwing light on the value of a community which is capable of producing something of great consequence. The theatrical qualities of the festivity serve to highlight this aspect. Preparations are carried out all through the year, and climax in the religious, social, and theatrical moment of the festa. [Excerpt]