The Algeciras Fantástika festival has inaugurated a new edition at the Teatro Municipal Florida, highlighting the growth and consolidation of one of the city's most unique cultural initiatives. This year's edition introduces theatre to a programme that has traditionally featured cinema, literature, and visual arts, broadening the scope of artistic expression and bringing the fantastic universe closer to the performing arts.
The inaugural event was attended by several local officials, including Jacinto Muñoz Madrid, the first deputy mayor and delegate for Citizen Security, Urban Mobility, and Personnel; Pilar Pintor Alonso, deputy mayor for Culture and Heritage; Susana Pérez Custodio, deputy mayor for Communication and Tourism; Javier Vázquez Hueso, delegate for Education, University, and Environment; and Ángel Martínez, delegate for Beaches, Parks, and Gardens. Representatives from the University of Cádiz were also present.
The festival is supported by the Algeciras City Council and the University of Cádiz through the Bahía de Algeciras Campus, reflecting their commitment to cultural activities and the promotion of the city. Ángel Gómez Rivero, the director of Algeciras Fantástika and a key figure in the project's development, also participated in the event.
During his speech, Muñoz emphasised the growing significance of Algeciras Fantástika within the city's cultural landscape and its ability to project the name of Algeciras beyond local boundaries. He expressed gratitude for the involvement of the University of Cádiz and acknowledged the efforts of Ángel Gómez Rivero and the entire organising team. He underscored the importance of initiatives that bring culture to the public and provide new opportunities for creators.
Muñoz also praised the incorporation of theatre into the programme and highlighted the connection between the Místicos awards and the work of artist Nacho Falgueras, stressing the importance of preserving and promoting the legacy of those who have enriched the cultural identity of the Campo de Gibraltar region.
The opening featured a performance by the Orquesta del Conservatorio Profesional Paco de Lucía and the first film screenings of this edition, including the feature film 'La mala madre', directed by Alicia Albares. Local filmmaker Ángel Gómez Hernández will also present his new production 'Crawlers' during the closing gala.
With this new edition, Algeciras Fantástika once again transforms the city into a meeting place for creators, professionals, and enthusiasts of fantastic culture, maintaining its unique identity while expanding its offerings. The festival will run until 14 November, culminating in the Místicos awards and recognitions for professionals linked to cinema.
