The city of Guadalajara will once again host the renowned Tenorio Mendocino on 31 October and 1 November, marking its 36th edition. This year, the production will be directed by Abigail Tomey and Julia Piera, with notable changes in the performance locations within the Palacio del Infantado.
During a press conference, Javier Toquero, the city’s Councillor for Culture, introduced the event alongside Felipe Sanz, president of the Gentes de Guadalajara Association, and actress Laura Galán, who joins the cast as Butarelli. Toquero acknowledged the founders of this cultural tradition, particularly Javier Borobia and José Luis Pradillo, emphasising the collaborative spirit that underpins the event.
“For a few hours, the city and the play share a stage,” Toquero remarked, expressing gratitude for the efforts of all involved in bringing the performance to life. He also welcomed Galán and Tomey back to the direction role.
Felipe Sanz highlighted the collective effort that sustains the Tenorio and the support from the municipal government, which includes a contribution of €50,000, along with security measures, infrastructure, and personnel. “The human support, which is hard to quantify, is essential,” he stated.
The presentation also featured Elena Cañeque, the tourism delegate for the Guadalajara Provincial Council, and Rosa María García, delegate of the Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha in Guadalajara.
On the artistic side, Abigail Tomey revealed that the scene featuring the sofa will be moved to the gardens of the Palacio del Infantado, while the dinner scene will take place in the entrance hall, offering a view of the Patio de los Leones. “One of the pillars of the Tenorio is that it should be popular and highly participatory,” she emphasised.
The cast will include both new faces and returning performers, such as Arturo Martínez and Pedro García Chaín as Don Juan. Julia Piera, who played Doña Inés under Tomey’s direction at the age of 17, is now making her debut as co-director. She praised the dedication of the cast and the collaboration between professionals and amateurs, stating, “Theatre is about companionship and is created in a group.”
Laura Galán expressed her excitement about joining a production she has followed since childhood, stating, “The Tenorio is part of our DNA.” She will portray a female version of Butarelli and will share the stage with her brother, Javier Galán. “I learn so much from the non-professional actors; their enthusiasm is overwhelming,” she added.
The poster for this edition was designed by Lidia Pajares, a member of Gentes de Guadalajara. As a prelude to the performances, the Jornadas Mendocinas will take place on 24 and 25 October, featuring scenes set in the 16th century at various monumental locations, organised by the tourism department and the association.
