Fresh from his missionary visit to Peru, President George Abela spoke glowingly about the fourth edition of the annual Rockestra concert, organised by the Malta Community Chest Fund, which will be held on September 15 at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

Speaking at a press conference at the Centenary Stadium in Ta’ Qali, President Abela said that last year’s concert attracted around 10,000 people, a number way beyond the ordinary expectations for a local show.

He said that the price this year would again be of €10 for adults and €2 for children. There will also be an extremely limited number of seated tickets at €15 each.

“The National Orchestra has succeeded in taking on musical styles such as rock and pop, and collaborating with local talent to produce something unique which appeals to every generation,” President Abela said.

He went on to say that last year’s edition of Rockestra had won a prestigious Frankfurt award for Best Lightshow.

H.E. George Abela thanked the President of the Malta Football Association, Norman Darmanin Demajo, who had offered an alternative location, but said that the MFCC had come through at the eleventh hour.

Dancer Felix Busuttil from the YADA dance company is also being added to a prestigious local line up of artists this year.

President Abela appealed very seriously to the public not to miss out on an enjoyable opportunity showcasing some of the best talent on the island, while at the same time giving something back to the community.

He said that last year alone, about 1,800 people had benefitted from around €1.2m from the Malta Community Chest Fund, mostly to cover medical expenses, as well as to subsidise trips abroad to undergo complex surgical procedures.

“The Beatles sang ‘Help, I need somebody’ – and that’s really what this event is about – giving help to those who really need it,” he concluded.