Astra Folk Group

The Gozitan Folklore Group " ASTRA " is a branch of the Soc. Fil. La Stella of Victoria, Gozo, MALTA. Since its foundation in 1970 the group ASTRA presented hundreds of spectacles in leading theatres, hotels, conventions and clubs in Malta and Gozo.

	Astra's repertoire includes songs and dances specifically scored for the group besides other traditional music from the islands. Works by one of Malta's leading composers, Prof. Joseph Vella alongside works by the group's ex-musical director Joseph Bezzina, make the group's programme what it is today, a showcase of Maltese and Gozitan folklore at its best. The official show, L-GHABEX includes solo songs and choirs, traditional music and various dances accompanied by live music and various sets of costumes which include the traditional faldetta.
Astra has participated in various European Folk Festivals: in Rome, Florence, Venice, Alatri, Canicattini and Como, Vice Equense and Naples in Italy, Lugano in Switzerland, Cambridge in England, Glasgow in Scotland, Chanteauvallon, Fontblanche, Marseille, Haguenau, Paris and Anger in France, Kaustinen in Finland, Vorenezh and Moscow in Russia, Cairo and Alexandria in Egypt.
	The group takes an active role in spring during the annual opera season held at the Astra Theatre as dancers, choristers and extras thus gaining invaluable experience and opportunities to work with famous international artistes from the opera world. The artistic director of the group, Manuel Grima and costume consultant George Farrugia have successfully given the show a professional combination of beautiful and lively dances, songs and much music coming from the heart.

Astra Folk Group Tours: