Sergio Peris-Mencheta, the acclaimed Spanish director, is presenting his new play '14.4' at the Teatro Liceo this weekend, all the more remarkable as he navigates the challenges of recovering from leukemia. This powerful production, co-written by Peris-Mencheta and Juan Diego Botto, dives deep and poetically explores the life of Ahmed Younoussi, who escaped his harsh circumstances to seek refuge and opportunity.
'14.4' tells the gripping story of Ahmed, who flees from domestic abuse, traversing the perilous streets of Tangier. Here, he daydreams about the promised paradise of Spain—just 14.4 kilometers away—seeing it as his final destination, filled with hope. Ahmed's adventurous spirit is evident as he manages to cross over concealed within the undercarriage of a truck at the tender age of nine.
Peris-Mencheta's directorial vision captures the raw and lyrical essence of Ahmed's life, balancing stark realism with poetic nuance. Reflecting on his own struggles, he has not allowed his health battles to deter his creative pursuits. Just over a year ago, he bravely shared with the public his fight against leukemia, emphasizing how his illness has reshaped him. "I'm improving, but it's like a sawtooth pattern. One day I'm fine, the next I'm slightly improved, and then I take three steps back... but I'm very glad to be alive," he remarked during one of the play's performances.
The play '14.4' debuted at the Auditorio Pilar Bardem and will soon reach the Teatro Bergidum, showing the relatable and often painful realities of many migrant lives. Its storyline is more than just Ahmed’s; it resonates with countless others who are chasing dreams of safety and opportunity across the sea. The subject matter not only provides insight but evokes the humanity shared by those who seek refuge.
During the production’s development, assistant director Ahmed Younoussi plays himself, delivering his life story to the stage, embodying both trauma and hope. The script reflects his personal experiences of danger, struggle, and eventual resilience, showcasing how art can emerge from the depths of hardship. The performance allows audiences to connect on multiple levels, feeling both the weight of Ahmed's experiences and the humor found within the chaos.
"This subjective distance is the starting point of the production," stated one of the reviewers, highlighting the conceptual depth behind the play’s narrative. With storytelling steeped deeply in Ahmed's personal history, Younoussi's portrayal is powerful, authentic, and magnetic; he is described as having an approach devoid of pretense. This authenticity is what attracts the audience, helping them relate to the experiences of those fleeing dire circumstances.
Support from family and friends, including his wife and kids, fuels Peris-Mencheta’s drive to create and share. His balanced perspective on enjoying life's small joys, even amid adversity, serves as inspiration for both the cast and the audience. "I've found great support from my family, helping lighten the load of everything," he shared, emphasizing the importance of loved ones during such trying times.
Looking toward the future, Peris-Mencheta hinted at his plans post-recovery. He mentioned upcoming projects including directing other plays and filming, stating, “I’ll need to see how I feel, but I’m ready to step back to work.” His determination showcases how creative endeavors can provide solace and continuity, acting as outlets for emotional expression.
Overall, '14.4' stands out not only as artistic expression but as a harrowing reflection of personal and collective migration experiences. With performances extending to various venues, it holds the potential to stir conversations around migration—highlighting the stark difference between the journeys of those fleeing poverty and violence and the audience who may take such distinctions for granted.
Through '14.4,' Peris-Mencheta brings to life the depth and resilience of individuals who persist against all odds, both through Ahmed’s story and his own. This intertwining of narratives is what will remain with audiences long after the curtain falls, merging the art of storytelling with the realities of human experience.
The tickets for '14.4', priced at €15, €20, and €25, highlight the accessibility to engage with narratives borne from struggle and hope. The production is not just entertainment; it is heartfelt advocacy for the real-life issues faced by many today.