T.6 📕 El Teatro de 1939 hasta final de siglo XX 🖊️ LITERATURA para la EVAU

The Evolution of Spanish Theatre from the 1930s to the Late 20th Century

Introduction to Spanish Theatre

• The discussion focuses on the evolution of Spanish theatre from the Civil War era (1936) until the end of the 20th century, using "Game of Thrones" as a thematic reference for better understanding.

• The impact of the Civil War and subsequent dictatorship led to significant censorship and limitations in theatrical expression.

The 1940s: Traditional Theatre

• This decade is characterized by outdated theatre reflecting a falsified reality, with well-crafted structures that alternate between humor and sentimentality.

• Common themes include middle-class characters dealing with marital issues and infidelities, often set in affluent environments.

• Two notable lines of creation emerge:

• Bourgeois Drama: Continuation of comedic traditions, exemplified by Luca de Tena's "Dos mujeres a las nueve."

• Humorous Theatre: Notable works include "Eloísa está debajo de un almendro" which challenges traditional forms but struggles with critical reception.

The 1950s: Realist Theatre

• This period introduces realist theatre that imitates everyday spaces with a focus on social issues, aiming to oppose dictatorship through existential themes.

• Many works were not staged due to censorship; two types of authors emerged:

• Cautious Critics: Those who softened their critiques (possibilism).

• Bold Voices: Authors like Alfonso Sastre ("Escuadra hacia la muerte") and Buero Vallejo ("Historia de una escalera") who expressed themselves freely despite risks.

The 1960s: Social Critique

• Linked to themes from "Game of Thrones," this decade emphasizes social injustices through various playwrights:

• José Martín's "Los salvajes" critiques bourgeois conservatism.

• Aura Olmo's "La camisa" addresses unemployment and emigration issues.

• Francisco Nieva’s works incorporate symbolism and dreamlike elements, while Fernando Arrabal employs avant-garde techniques in plays like "El arquitecto y el emperador de Asiria."

Independent Theatre Groups

• Emergence of independent theatre groups such as Els Joglars, Goliardos, and Teatro Experimental Independiente. Key characteristics include:

• Collaborative idea generation among group members.

• Use of improvisation alongside dance and music.

• A focus on political and social critique while engaging audiences directly by moving performances into spectator areas.

Post-Franco Era (1975 Onwards)

• Marked by the end of censorship allowing previously banned works (e.g., Valle-Inclán, Lorca). However:

• Audiences often struggled to adapt to new styles leading some productions to be rejected as too avant-garde or disconnected from traditional expectations.

Thematic Exploration of Spanish Theatre

Key Works and Authors in Spanish Theatre

• The discussion begins with Antonio Gala's work "Anillos para una dama," which features female protagonists exploring themes of love and solitude, highlighting the poetic nature of Gala's theatre.

• José Luis Alonso de Santos is mentioned for his realistic play "Bajarse al moro," emphasizing its grounded portrayal of life. This realism contrasts with more abstract theatrical forms.

• Another significant work discussed is Fernando Fernán Gómez's "Las bicicletas son para el verano," noted for its realistic narrative that reflects societal issues during the summer season.

• The conversation also touches on Hernán Fredes' "Geoffrey el dictador," which critiques authoritarianism through a comedic lens, showcasing how bicycles symbolize freedom within the constraints of summer.

• Lastly, José Luis Sanchís Sinisterra's play "Ay Carmela" is highlighted as a reflective piece on theatre itself, prompting discussions about the role and impact of performance art in society.

Reflection on Learning and Memory

• The speaker expresses concern over forgetting numerous authors and works after an exam, indicating a deep engagement with the material yet acknowledging the challenges of retention in such a vast field.

• There’s a humorous acknowledgment that if one were to dedicate themselves fully to this world (theatre), it would be ideal but impractical due to time constraints.

This structured overview captures key insights from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference.