The upsurge in the number of tourists visiting the islands during the 1960’s was creating a demand for typical Maltese entertainment. It was this phenomenon that had prompted the: Malta Tourist Board to approach Mr. Curmi and ask him to introduce for the first time in Malta, Maltese folklore dancing.
Paul Curmi accepted this proposal and dedicated all his energies towards this new venture. He delved deeply into local past customs and eventually came up with a series of folklore dances related to Goth peasantry and aristocratic mediaeval activities. His numbers are a vivid depiction of the humble fishermen’s chores, the lively village festa celebrations, and harvest time reveling, in direct contrast to the sophisticated movements of the noble people of Mdina, and the leisurely paces of the spouses and guests at the traditional Maltese wedding performance.
Paul Curmi is also responsible for composing the typical Maltese folk music, which accompanies the various dances.
The group’s wardrobe is ably managed by Mary Curmi, Paul’s Wife. All the costumes worn during performances were designed after a careful study of illustrations of our forefather ‘s apparel found in the local museums and the National Library. The different costumes can be considered to be authentic; the peasant clothing being made from water colored hand loomed material adorned with hand made lace and complemented by fine pantaloons and underskirts, the Ghonnella blouses made from heavy silk, the bride ‘s wedding gown made of pure damasque… ‘They are all in fact heirlooms in their own right.
The tradition set by Paul Curmi is set to continue from one generation to another for today both his daughters, grandson and granddaughters of the group. Demand for the group ‘s is ever on the increase.
In fact the Paul Curmi Dancers stage their performances dairy at the various Maltese Folklore evenings organized by tour operators restaurants and various entertainment locations. They perform in Maltese Summer festival and at wedding receptions. Paul Curmi’s group are from time to time also requested to represent Malta in International Folk Festivals. The group in truth can boast of having toured the world participating in different festivals and acquiring in the process several awards for their excellent representations.
