Explore the magic of classical theater at summer festivals

The summer theater festival season is already in full swing and one of the most prominent events is undoubtedly the International Classical Theater Festival of Mérida, which in its 70th edition promises to delight performing arts lovers with a luxurious program. This year, the event once again shines a spotlight on the María Luisa Theater as an extension, offering a varied selection of works ranging from classics like Shakespeare to high-quality contemporary productions. One of the highlights this year is the presence of Rafael Álvarez El Brujo, who returns to the festival with his work "Iconos o la exploración del destino" until July 14. Additionally, to celebrate the centenary of the birth of writer Francisco Nieva, a version of his work "La Paz de Aristófanes" will be presented from July 17 to 21. Another major event will be the staging of Shakespeare's "Coriolanus," starring Roberto Enríquez, Carmen Conesa, Alex Barahona, Juan Díaz, and María Ordóñez during the last weekend of the month. But the surprises don't end there, as renowned actress Victoria Abril will make her debut at the festival starring in a version of "Medusa" from July 31 to August 4 and from August 7 to 11. The program will continue with outstanding performances such as Eusebio Poncela, Óscar de la Fuente, and Ana Fernández in "Tiresias" from August 14 to 18, and will close with a flourish with "Iphigenia" featuring María Garralón and Juanjo Artero until August 25. But Mérida is not the only place where you can enjoy the magic of classical theater this summer. The Almagro International Festival of Classical Theater, in its 47th edition, also presents itself as a must-see option for performing arts lovers. With a program that includes 41 national companies and 9 foreign ones, the festival promises a month full of festive, multidisciplinary, and immersive shows ranging from Golden Age works to contemporary adaptations of classics. On the other hand, the Olmedo International Festival of Classical Theater, in its eighteenth edition, promises to take the audience on a journey through the words of Shakespeare, Calderón de la Barca, and other emblematic figures of the Golden Age, such as Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz and Saint Teresa of Jesus. With a program that runs from July 19 to 28, this festival is a unique opportunity to enjoy the richness of classical theater in an incomparable historical setting. Additionally, festivals like Niebla, Sagunto, Clunia, Barcelona, and Alcántara also offer high-quality theatrical proposals during this summer, with outstanding performances by renowned artists and a wide variety of genres and styles to satisfy the most demanding tastes of the audience. From contemporary dance to classic comedies, through tragedies and innovative adaptations, this summer's theatrical offering promises to be diverse and exciting for all performing arts lovers. In conclusion, this summer's theater festivals invite us to immerse ourselves in a world of emotions, stories, and unforgettable characters that will transport us to past eras and allow us to reflect on the human condition in a unique and enriching way. Whether in Mérida, Almagro, Olmedo, Niebla, Sagunto, Clunia, Barcelona, or Alcántara, there is a theatrical appointment waiting to be enjoyed by all those seeking intense emotions and enriching cultural experiences this summer. Will you miss it?