Torrelavega will celebrate the 22nd edition of 'Don Juan de Noviembre' on 31 October, a cultural event that has become a staple in the city's calendar, coinciding with the All Saints' Day festivities. This year, the Cantabrian theatre company El Tejo Producciones will present a new adaptation directed by Anabel Díez, with dramaturgy by Carlos Troyano, which explores the significant moments in the life of Don Juan Tenorio through his own memories.
The Councillor for Culture, Esther Vélez, and the director of the show, Anabel Díez, unveiled the details of this year's edition, which will take place at midnight in the Casa de los Escudos on Calle Mártires, lasting approximately 35 minutes. During the presentation, Vélez emphasised the event's “consolidation” as a cultural highlight that attracts audiences to an emblematic space in the city to enjoy a unique version of 'Don Juan Tenorio'. She encouraged residents of Torrelavega, the Besaya region, and the wider Cantabria area to attend, describing the performance as an event that represents the cultural identity of Torrelavega and one that “never leaves anyone indifferent”.
A new perspective on Zorrilla's classic
Anabel Díez explained that Carlos Troyano's adaptation begins in the final moments of Don Juan's life, where he encounters a new character, the Dama, who represents death. From this point, the protagonist revisits, through his memories, the most famous scenes from Zorrilla's work, culminating in his final encounter with Doña Inés. Díez noted that this version retains the original verses and revisits iconic moments such as the tavern scene, the meeting with Doña Inés, the duel with Don Luis Mejía, and the divan scene. Regarding the sword duel, she highlighted that the choreography was designed by Quique Inchausti, whom she described as “one of the great sword masters in the country”.
Additionally, the performance will feature live music, performed by Luisa Bahillo on violin and Gema López on cello, with a repertoire that includes compositions by Bach and Mozart. Díez explained that the musical selection has been specifically crafted to accompany the various scenes and enhance Zorrilla's verses, linking them with the great masters of music.
The cast will include Andrés Gutiérrez Viaña as Don Juan Tenorio, Eva Barón as the Dama, Lucía de Lis as Doña Inés, Borja Turrado as Don Luis Mejía, and Belén Galzarza as Brígida. Verónica Cobo will assist with direction and stage management.
More than just theatre
Esther Vélez also reminded attendees that 'Don Juan de Noviembre' is a celebration that extends beyond the theatrical performance, preserving traditions that have accompanied this cultural event throughout its 22 editions. Following the performance, attendees will be invited to participate in the traditional procession to the retablillo of Don Juan and Doña Inés, located in the foyer of the Teatro Municipal Concha Espina, where they can express their wishes for love. Afterwards, the customary heart-shaped artisan cookies, made by Confitería Santos, will be served, along with a new addition this year: a cup of hot chocolate. A traditional photo opportunity featuring Don Juan and Doña Inés will also be available.
Vélez noted that the performance will take place in the Casa de los Escudos on Calle Mártires, but will be moved indoors to the Teatro Municipal Concha Espina in case of rain. She concluded by thanking the Ruiz de Villa family and Inmobiliaria Inmoverde for generously allowing the use of the Casa de los Escudos, as well as the understanding and cooperation of local businesses for any inconveniences caused by the event.
