The Escuela Superior de Arte Dramático (ESAD) of Extremadura is currently celebrating the tenth edition of the Festival y Escena, a pivotal event that aims to promote its teachings and bring theater closer to the Extremaduran society. Since Tuesday, March 25, 2025, numerous students from various educational institutions have been visiting ESAD to gain firsthand insight into dramatic arts training and the diverse professional opportunities it offers.
According to ESAD's director, Ángel Jiménez, the festival not only seeks to attract future actors and actresses but also aims to showcase the multidisciplinary nature of theater, which includes areas such as set design, production, and direction. The festival features a series of interactive activities where visitors can participate in workshops on stage fighting, acrobatics, singing, and acting warm-ups. Additionally, students have the opportunity to attend theatrical performances at the Teatro Capitol, the ESAD's venue located in Cáceres.
This year, the Instituto Ildefonso Serrano de Segura de León presented "La Celestina," while the Instituto El Brocense de Cáceres staged "Antígona, del siglo XXI."
Coinciding with World Theater Day on Thursday, March 27, 2025, the ESAD paid tribute to the recently deceased actor Juan Margallo. His widow, actress Petra Martínez, was present to accept the recognition on her husband's behalf. Jiménez emphasized, "Margallo was a reference for independent theater and always carried Cáceres in his heart."
The festival also aims to demystify the notion that theater is not a viable career option. Jiménez underlined that ESAD graduates possess extensive job competencies that allow them to thrive in various fields, from teaching to cultural management. "Dramatic arts do not only train actors but also professionals with great problem-solving abilities and a profound intellectual background," he stated.
The festival's activities will culminate with the reading of the World Theater Day manifesto, this year presented by the renowned Greek director Theodoro Terzopoulos. ESAD encourages all Extremadurans to attend the events at the Teatro Capitol and to consider theater as a viable life and professional development option.
Meanwhile, the Ayuntamiento de Madrid is also celebrating World Theater Day on the same day with various performances and activities. The Teatro Fernán Gómez, Centro Cultural de la Villa, is marking the occasion with a parade featuring the actors and actresses from the play "La señorita de Trevélez," showcasing the costumes designed by Almudena R. Huertas. This event, starting at 18:00 hours, will be free and open to the public until capacity is reached. Following the performance, there will be a meet-and-greet with the audience where the actors and artistic team will engage with attendees.
The Teatro Español is celebrating World Theater Day by concluding the season of two of its successful productions: "Historia de una escalera," by Antonio Buero Vallejo, and "Natacha," by Luisa Carnés, both of which have sold out all tickets. Additionally, the Teatro Español will open its doors to media representatives. The RNE program "Mañana más" will be broadcasting live from the Salón de los Balcones from 11:00 to 13:00 hours, featuring artistic director Eduardo Vasco, to celebrate this special day.
Furthermore, the TV program "Aquí hay trabajo" will air a report about theater professions at 9:30 hours on the same day. Later in the evening, at 19:00 hours, the Teatro Español will welcome the Telemadrid program "Madrid Directo." This week, Nave 10 Matadero will premiere "Las amargas lágrimas de Petra von Kant," by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, directed by Rakel Camacho, which will run from March 28 to April 20. This production explores themes of power dynamics, obsessive relationships, and the toxic need for acceptance in the eyes of others.
Espacio Abierto is also participating in the World Theater Day celebration with the staging of "El mago de Oz" by La Canica Teatro, scheduled for March 28, 29, and 30. Meanwhile, the Centro de Cultura Contemporánea Condeduque will premiere the contemporary dance show "Mongrel" on March 27, and on March 29, it will debut "R-A-U-X-A," a futuristic geometric dance performance by Catalan choreographer Aina Alegre.
World Theater Day was established by the International Theater Institute (ITI) in 1961 and is celebrated every year on March 27. This day aims to spread awareness of the significance of theater in culture worldwide, allowing the theatrical community to promote its work on a grand scale and share the joy of this art with society.
The tradition of sending a message from a prominent figure in the theater world dates back to 1962 with Jean Cocteau. This year, the message will be delivered by Theodoros Terzopoulos, a distinguished author and educator in the theater sector, who is currently recognized as one of the most prominent directors internationally.
The history of theater is rich and varied, beginning in the 6th century BC in Ancient Greece, where it evolved into a method of storytelling and collective learning. The art form spread to Rome and gained popularity, eventually serving as a vehicle for religious narratives during the Middle Ages. The Renaissance marked a significant resurgence in theater, shifting the focus from religious themes to diverse social issues, giving rise to renowned figures like William Shakespeare and Lope de Vega.
In modern times, theater has continued to evolve, addressing social struggles, political injustices, and inequalities, making it a vital tool for social commentary. Today, contemporary theater remains one of the most relevant forms of performance art globally, becoming increasingly accessible and inclusive through new technologies and methods.
As we celebrate World Theater Day, it is essential to recognize the impact and relevance of live art as a fundamental pillar of culture, connecting humanity through powerful performances that reflect our shared identity.
