Watch: New Maltese Play To Tackle The Taboo Of Sexual Violence Against Men

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A new Maltese-language play is preparing to tackle a subject that remains largely unspoken in society: sexual violence against men and the trauma survivors can experience in its aftermath.Il-Kelma li ma Tgħidx, written by Dr Tyrone Grima and directed by Josue Formosa, will take to the stage this October with a story exploring sexual violence, justice and psychological trauma.At the centre of the play is Liam Falzon, a 16-year-old music student who becomes a victim of sexual violence.His case eventually reaches Inspector Rose Darmanin, whose determination to pursue justice leads her into an increasingly complex and tense investigation. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)But as the pieces begin falling into place, new questions emerge – with both Liam and Rose facing mounting psychological pressure and the consequences of decisions made in the past.Produced by Luke Andre Camilleri, the production seeks to confront the silence surrounding male victims of sexual violence, exploring both the emotional and psychological impact such trauma can leave behind.The cast features Benjamin Abela, James Azzopardi Meli, Aidan Aquilina, Kim Dalli, Ryan Mark De Battista and Kyle Mangani.The production is also collaborating with organisations including Victim Support Malta and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, and is supported by Arts Council Malta, VisitMalta and the Valletta Cultural Agency, among others.Given its subject matter, organisers have issued a content warning, noting that the production contains sensitive themes, emotionally difficult scenes and direct depictions or discussions of sexual violence and trauma affecting men.Il-Kelma li ma Tgħidx will run from 16th to 25th October, with performances scheduled from 8pm to 10pm.At its heart, the production is looking to bring an often-hidden experience into the open, and start a conversation around a form of violence that many victims may struggle to speak about.Share with someone who’d be interested!•