Teatro Municipal Concha Espina is set to stage 'Boda en la Aldea' on 12 and 26 November, starting at 19:30. This production aims to revive the rural traditions and folklore of Cantabria and is being presented by the Agrupación de Danzas Virgen de las Nieves de Tanos as part of the celebrations marking the centenary of its first documented photograph.
The announcement was made in the presence of key local officials, including first deputy mayor José Luis Urraca, second deputy mayor Pedro Pérez Noriega, and the president of the Agrupación, Carmen Olarreaga. Urraca emphasised the cultural significance of the production, which was conceived by Manuel Egusquiza and scripted by Juan José Crespo, and was previously adapted for film by the Agrupación in 2000. He remarked, "This is a work that originates from here, from Torrelavega," highlighting its connection to the town's history and traditions.
Urraca further noted that 'Boda en la Aldea' represents a vital effort to preserve and transmit local traditions to contemporary audiences of all ages, ensuring that the folklore of Cantabria remains vibrant. He encouraged residents of Torrelavega to attend the performance, which returns to the Teatro Municipal Concha Espina during a particularly significant year for the Agrupación.
Carmen Olarreaga described the revival of 'Boda en la Aldea' as both a challenge and a dream for the Agrupación, especially after receiving requests from the public and younger members for its return. She acknowledged the complexity of the production, which will involve over 200 participants from various groups, necessitating extensive coordination, rehearsals, and costume preparations.
The performance will feature the Agrupación de Danzas Virgen de las Nieves de Tanos, the Santa María de Solvay choir, and the Solvay Ensemble, who will provide the choral elements, alongside musicians from Suances. The narration will be delivered by local actress María Castillo, who will take on the role originally played by Juan José Crespo, a key figure in the work's development.
Olarreaga expressed gratitude to Crespo and Egusquiza for their essential contributions to the creation and musical adaptation of the performance. She also acknowledged Pedro Sobrado for his artwork depicting the wedding of the indiano with his niece.
The theme for the centenary of the Agrupación is "Transmítelo" (Pass it on), a concept that gains particular relevance with the revival of this work, allowing new generations to experience it beyond its recorded version. Interest in attending 'Boda en la Aldea' has been significant, with initial tickets for the 12 November performance already sold out, while only 23 remained for the 26 November show at the time of the announcement.
In accordance with theatre regulations, 10% of the seating capacity, equivalent to 75 free tickets, will be made available to the public on the morning of each performance. Additionally, a block of seats has been reserved for local senior centres, facilitated by the Department of Seniors, to ensure their participation.
This initiative is supported by the Ayuntamiento de Torrelavega and sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sport of the Government of Cantabria.
