Call for Theatrical Adaptations of Maltese Books at the Malta Book Festival 

The National Book Council (NBC) is issuing a call for applications for theatre companies, collectives, and independent practitioners to submit applications for stage productions inspired by published books to form part of the theatre programme of the Malta Book Festival (MBF) in 2026.

This year’s edition of the MBF will be taking place between 4-8 November at the MFCC, Ta’ Qali. The Festival is the leading celebration of books on the island, with theatre and other art forms being an integral part of the way in which this staple event in the Maltese cultural calendar seeks to promote literary culture among its numerous and varied attendees. Following record attendances in 2025, this year’s edition is projected to attract upwards of 50,000 visitors from all walks of life. 

Selected productions will contribute to a curated programme celebrating the relationship between literature and performance, engaging audiences through accessible and quality theatrical interpretation of literary works.

This Expression of Interest is intended for productions that are already fully developed and performance-ready. Only productions clearly inspired by books with a Maltese ISBN will be considered, and the final shows must be suitable for presentation within a festival environment. The NBC will cover all technical production requirements, pending the submission of a satisfactory budget breakdown and rider. 

The full list of guidelines and regulations that form an integral part of the call may be found here. 

Those interested are to submit their application by no later than 20 May 2026, noon. 

Applications must be submitted via Submittable in order to be considered eligible for review.