The small town of Allepuz in Teruel will celebrate the eighth edition of its Festival against Depopulation from 16 to 18 October. This year, the cultural association Escurzón, which organises the festival, aims to enhance its musical diversity by featuring the Toulouse-based group Edredon Senbile, known for their unconventional minimalist jazz.
Edredon Senbile, comprising two percussionists and two saxophonists, promises an eclectic performance focused on trance through infinite loops and influences from around the world. Elena Cantero and Vanesa Rubio from the organising team shared details of the festival during a press conference, alongside Miguel Iranzo, the provincial deputy for culture, who reiterated the provincial government's support for cultural events.
The festival aims to create an engaging atmosphere where rhythm and dance become collective actions, allowing attendees to explore new musical formats. Following Edredon Senbile, the local band Poble Nostrum will take the stage, showcasing their new EP, “Pardal,” with a powerful punk sound.
Round table discussions and cultural initiatives
On Saturday at 11 a.m., the festival will kick off with a round table discussion featuring various social agents from rural areas. This two-hour session will allow participants to share their experiences and engage in conversation. Notable guests include Vicente San Francisco, president of the Ǫuesos Hontanar cooperative, who will discuss successful cooperative models in depopulated areas.
Additionally, representatives from the citizen platform Movimiento por la dignidad de la montaña will address the challenges of rural territory exploitation and tourism in the Pyrenees. Yolanda Gimeno will represent the 3G4.Bodegas project, which focuses on preserving traditional winemaking and fostering community.
The festival will also welcome representatives from L’Aplec dels Ports, a long-standing cultural festival in Castellón, to discuss their experiences in advocating for rural life and addressing depopulation issues.
Musical line-up and activities
The musical offerings on Saturday will feature notable acts from the national circuit, including Eskorzo, celebrating their 30th anniversary, and the Valencian band Malifeta, performing in Teruel for the first time. Azero, another local favourite, will also perform, highlighting the theme of depopulation through their music.
Isla Kume, a promising emerging band, will return to the festival after last year’s cancellation, bringing their unique folktronica style. The festival will also showcase traditional music with a performance by the folk duo Ixeya.
In addition to music, the festival will host participatory workshops on traditional dances and percussion, led by Inés Saltamontes and the batucada Punkadeira, respectively. Renowned dancer Ana Continente will present her piece “Cable a Tierra,” while an exhibition of wooden carvings by José Orduña and a documentary screening titled “Mujeres del Campo” will also take place.
The festival will feature a market for local artisans, camping facilities, and parking for caravans. Entry to the festival is free, with the only requirement being prior reservation and payment for the traditional communal meal.
