Rueda de Prensa El escondido y la tapada

Welcome to the Presentation

Introduction to the Event

• The event is a dual presentation of "El Escondido y La Tapada" and the seventh promotion of the Young National Classical Theatre Company.

• Over 900 individuals applied for this promotion, with 120 auditioning, leading to 30 participants in a selection workshop before finalizing 12 members.

Meet the Participants

• The twelve selected members include Zoeda Fonte, Sam Arribas, Ana Ncher, Andrea Real, Luis Espacio, Diego Garisa, Jordan Blasco, Gabi de Mulder, and Andrea Marín Santos.

The Directorial Perspective

Beatriz Argüello's Insights

• Beatriz Argüello expresses gratitude for directing this talented group and highlights their intensive four-month training prior to her involvement.

• She describes "El Escondido y La Tapada" as an ideal text for young actors; it marks its first representation at the Comedy Theatre.

Themes and Structure of the Play

• The play is characterized as a comedy of intrigue with significant female characters driving dramatic action through clever plot twists.

• It features a narrative where a woman writes to her lover hiding from justice in Portugal; this initiates comedic chaos within her household.

Dramatic Elements and Historical Context

Calderón's Influence

• The work reflects Calderón's mastery in crafting intricate comedies filled with layered plots and character dynamics.

• Argüello emphasizes inclusivity among cast members during rehearsals while maintaining distinct roles within the ensemble.

Conceptual Exploration

• The director explores themes of concealment versus revelation through staging choices that allow audiences insight into hidden actions on stage.

Setting and Scenic Design

Innovative Staging Ideas

• A unique set design allows hidden elements to be visible to the audience while remaining concealed from characters on stage.

Madrid as a Character

• The play incorporates elements of Madrid’s geography and culture into its setting; references are made to local landmarks enhancing authenticity.

Exploring the Layers of Dramatic Action

The Role of Capes and Urban Life in Drama

• Discussion on the significance of capes in 15th-century Madrid, symbolizing anonymity and dramatic action.

• Introduction of Andoni Larrabeiti's work on scenic movement, reflecting the bustling life in Madrid where characters serve the unfolding drama.

• Emphasis on the rich comedic nuances within the play, highlighting beautiful dialogues and thematic depth.

Symbolism and Artistic Influences

• The emergence of a mirrored door as a metaphor for hidden truths, leading to reflections on Velázquez’s works like "Las Meninas."

• Exploration of Velázquez's theatricality in his paintings, particularly focusing on servants and their roles within Calderón's narrative.

Audience Engagement and Reflective Techniques

• The concept of actors viewing themselves as mirrors to engage with the audience, enhancing interaction through symbolic complexity.

• Acknowledgment that this layered approach serves both comedy and deeper thematic exploration.

Collaborative Creation Process

• Recognition of a collaborative environment among cast members during rehearsals, fostering creativity and adventure in theater-making.

Version Adaptation Insights

Balancing Tradition with Modern Interpretation

• Carolina expresses gratitude for being involved in adapting Calderón’s work for a new generation while maintaining respect for its original essence.

Challenges in Adapting Classic Texts

• Discussion about balancing traditional elegance with contemporary street theater influences; highlights risks taken during adaptation.

Gender Dynamics in Narrative Structure

• Addressing gender representation by ensuring female characters have significant dialogue throughout the play rather than remaining silent towards the end.

Maintaining Original Text Integrity

• Importance placed on preserving Calderón’s words while allowing room for modern interpretation without losing core messages.

Introduction to the Play and Its Cast

Overview of the Play's Themes

• The actors bring a youthful energy that enhances the comedic elements of the play, reflecting themes of love and passion intertwined with humor.

• The narrative explores intense emotions typical of springtime romances, where relationships can shift dramatically in an instant.

Significance of Calderón's Works

• A notable detail is the representation of Calderón’s four most significant works at his statue in Plaza Santana, indicating their historical importance.

• The speaker expresses surprise that "El Escondido y La Tapada" has not been frequently performed, despite its comedic brilliance and structural complexity.

Expanding the Canon

• There is a desire to both preserve canonical titles while also introducing lesser-known works into theatrical repertoires, highlighting a balance between tradition and innovation.

• A new publication will reflect on how perceptions of theatrical canon have evolved over 40 years, including shifts due to technological advancements like AI.

Discussion on Character Roles

Insights from Cast Members

• Gabriel portrays Don Juan, who is characterized as Lisarda's lover and an antagonist aiming to eliminate Don César (the hidden one). His role adds tension to the narrative.

Character Development Choices

• Andrea plays Otáñez, originally conceived as an older male character but reimagined as an androgynous figure to honor cross-dressing roles in Baroque theater traditions. This choice enriches character dynamics within the play.

Exploring Relationships Through Characters

• Julio describes his role as Mosquito, drawing parallels with classic literary duos like Don Quijote and Sancho Panza; this relationship highlights class distinctions between nobility and commoners in their desires and motivations.

Reflection on Performance Experience

• Laura shares her experience playing a superstitious maid named Beatriz, emphasizing how her character reflects both noble aspirations and grounded realities faced by servants in society. This duality showcases thematic contrasts within the play.

Exploring Diverse Sources of Suffering

Different Reasons for Suffering

• People suffer from various issues, ranging from romantic heartbreak to trivial matters like clothing or food. This highlights the diversity in human experiences and emotional responses.

• The contrast between different types of suffering is intriguing, showcasing how individuals pursue their desires passionately, even when those desires are vastly different.

Character Insights: Don Diego

• Jordan portrays Don Diego, a father figure who seeks to uncover hidden truths within his family while grappling with personal loss after the death of his son. His character embodies the struggle for trust and communication within familial relationships.

• Don Diego's journey involves navigating grief and new hopes as he considers marrying off his daughter Lisarda to her cousin Juan, which he believes will bring him peace. He also finds distraction in potential romance himself.

Themes of Honor and Jealousy

• The play explores themes of love, jealousy, and honor through characters like Don Diego and Don Félix, who grapple with societal expectations regarding family reputation. Their roles highlight the comedic yet serious nature of these themes in Calderón's work.

• Calderón cleverly critiques the concept of honor by placing it on stage for examination and humor, prompting audiences to reflect on its absurdities.

Character Dynamics and Development

Lisarda's Characterization

• Vilel Andaluce plays Lisarda, a character that balances perfectionism before her father with a more complex inner life that unfolds throughout the play. Her interactions reveal deeper layers beneath her seemingly flawless exterior.

• Lisarda’s desire for control over her life is challenged by unexpected events brought about by other characters like Don César, leading to comedic turmoil as she navigates her feelings amidst chaos.

Castaño: The Youthful Perspective

• Diego portrays Castaño, a young servant characterized by adolescent irreverence and naivety regarding social norms within the household dynamics; he represents youthful exuberance amidst serious undertones in the narrative.

• Castaño’s primary focus is on enjoying life rather than engaging deeply with the unfolding drama around him; this innocence adds a refreshing layer to the overall comedic tone of the play as he inadvertently becomes part of larger conflicts despite his carefree attitude.

Introduction to the Characters and Themes

Overview of Don Félix and His Role

• Luis Espacio introduces himself as Don Félix, a character representing honor in the play, highlighting themes from the Golden Age.

• He discusses the challenges faced by young characters, particularly how they bear burdens imposed by life at an early age.

Insights on Character Dynamics

• Andrea Real portrays Inés, a servant with a lively personality that adds humor to her interactions within the family dynamics.

• She mentions playing La Vinia, a side character associated with a mafia figure, showcasing versatility in her role.

Character Transformations and Challenges

Octavia's Unique Characterization

• Anna Nacher describes her role as Octavia, originally male in the script but reimagined as a powerful female character who speaks Italian verse.

• She expresses initial apprehension about performing in Italian but finds joy in portraying an independent woman who runs her own business.

César's Complex Journey

• Sam plays César, who is called to Madrid after committing murder; his journey involves navigating love interests and personal dilemmas.

• He highlights César's realization of true affection versus superficial attraction throughout his misadventures.

Celia: A Dynamic Female Protagonist

Celia’s Determination and Strategy

• Zoe portrays Celia La tapada, emphasizing her proactive nature and ability to devise plans despite obstacles she faces for love.

• She reflects on how this role has been an exciting debut for her in theater, expressing gratitude towards the team involved.

The Importance of Compassionate Direction

Advocacy for Sensitive Leadership

• The group collectively praises Beatriz Arguello’s compassionate direction style that prioritizes emotional intelligence over mere spectacle.

• They advocate for more directors like Beatriz who value people within theatrical productions.