The Concha Espina Municipal Theatre in Torrelavega will host a performance of 'Clandestino' on 22 October at 19:00. This social theatre piece is part of the 2026 Week Against Poverty, with free entry available until the venue reaches full capacity.
The initiative was announced by Esther Vélez, the Councillor for Education and Culture, alongside Alberto Rubio, the Councillor for Social Welfare, Eloísa Velarde from EAPN Cantabria, and Carmen Lamadrid, a technician from EAPN Cantabria. Vélez stated that the aim of this initiative is to “raise awareness of poverty and social exclusion” and to “encourage collective reflection on the inequalities that persist in our society.”
She emphasised the importance of bringing the Week Against Poverty to Torrelavega, offering residents a cultural proposal that uses the performing arts as a tool for social awareness and participation. “We are a city that is solidary and committed to all social issues,” she added.
About the performance
'Clandestino' is produced by the Zenbatu theatre company, a community theatre group from the Bilbao-based association Bizitegi, directed by Iván Iparraguirre. Lamadrid described the play as “social theatre infused with humour and music,” featuring non-professional actors, including individuals who have experienced social exclusion and homelessness, alongside volunteer participants.
The performance tackles themes such as prejudice, violence, ageism, machismo, and gender inequalities through “stories of what we hide to survive, of what we conceal to avoid being seen,” according to Lamadrid. Approximately 25 participants, including performers and musicians, will take part in the show, which will be followed by a discussion with the director and cast members.
Week Against Poverty 2026
Eloísa Velarde explained that this event is part of the Week Against Poverty, organised by EAPN Cantabria and the Cantabrian Coordinator of NGOs, which includes 25 and 35 social entities, respectively. Velarde highlighted the effort to extend activities to various municipalities, including Torrelavega and Reinosa, to “reach all citizens of Cantabria” and raise awareness of poverty and vulnerability.
The Week Against Poverty is held around 17 October, which is the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, and this year’s theme is “Concentrated wealth, fragmented society.” The organisers encourage local residents and visitors to attend the performance, which aims to shed light on different social realities through the direct testimonies of those affected.
