“La Casa de Bernarda Alba” – A Stirring Spanish Drama Opens at Cervantes Theatre

Today marks the grand return of Federico García Lorca’s enthralling masterpiece, “La Casa de Bernarda Alba“, performed in its original Spanish at the Cervantes Theatre in London. This play, a compelling study of repression, passion, and conformity, delves into the life of Bernarda Alba, a domineering matriarch exerting control over her five daughters. The show promises to be a riveting exploration of intense familial dynamics and societal norms.

Running from January 9th to February 17th, 2024, the play offers matinee performances from Mondays to Fridays at 2:30 pm, and evening shows from Thursdays to Saturdays at 7:30 pm. This schedule provides ample opportunity for theatre enthusiasts to immerse themselves in what is described as a “drama of women in the villages of Spain.” The exclusion of male characters from the narrative intensifies the sexual tension and emotional drama, making it a unique theatrical experience.

Lorca, a poet and dramatist, is celebrated as one of the greatest Spanish writers of the 20th century. His tragic and untimely death at the age of thirty-eight during the Spanish Civil War adds a poignant backdrop to this work, which was completed just two months before his demise. “The House of Bernarda Alba” stands as a testament to his profound insight into human nature and societal pressures.

The play boasts a talented cast, with Teresa del Olmo leading as Bernarda Alba, supported by Maite Jiménez as Poncia, Laura Fernández Bercero as Adela, among others. Each actor brings to life the complex and intricate characters envisioned by Lorca.

Behind the scenes, the production is helmed by Director Jorge de Juan, with Angel Haro as the Set Designer and Isabel del Moral handling Costume Design. The play’s atmosphere is further enhanced by Lighting Designer Nigel Lewis and the musical compositions of Javier “Peke” Rodríguez and Erwin Grafe.

The Cervantes Theatre’s commitment to bringing Spanish-language theatre to London is embodied in this production. Artistic Directors Jorge de Juan and Paula Paz, along with House Manager Puerto Baker, have worked tirelessly to ensure an authentic and captivating presentation of Lorca’s work.

The production runs for 1 hour and 40 minutes, which includes a 15-minute interval, allowing audiences to fully engage with the emotional depth and dramatic tension of the play.