In a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Spanish television director Chicho Ibáñez Serrador, the Centro de Historias in Zaragoza is hosting the exhibition titled 'Historias para no olvidar' (Stories Not to Forget), which will be open until August 24, 2025. This exhibit is hailed as the most comprehensive showcase of Ibáñez Serrador's life and legacy.
Curated by Carlos Urrutia, the exhibition features a rich tapestry of personal artifacts, original props, scripts, and photographs that span the director's illustrious career. "In Zaragoza, I wanted to do something different, and of all the Spanish cities, this has been the best exhibition, where perfection has been achieved, also because the space has complemented it well," Urrutia remarked during the exhibition's presentation.
The exhibition offers visitors a nostalgic journey through the life of Ibáñez Serrador, starting from his intimate beginnings. It showcases personal items such as locks of hair kept by his mother and his first baby shoes, leading up to the legendary works that made him a household name, including the beloved programs 'Un, dos, tres' and 'Historias para no dormir'.
Among the standout pieces is the first tape with which he presented himself on Televisión Española, described by Urrutia as "the Big Bang of television." The exhibit also includes sketches by renowned artist Antonio Mingote and various accolades collected by Ibáñez Serrador, such as the honorary Goya award and the Hondas and Feroz awards.
Visitors will have the unique opportunity to sit in the same stands as contestants from 'Un, dos, tres' or take a seat in a recreation of Chicho's office. This office, filled with original items like his typewriter, tape recorder, and ashtrays with remnants of cigars, reflects a setting where much of Spanish television history was crafted. Urrutia emphasized, "He didn’t invent anything, but he managed to showcase everything he knew from Uruguay and translate it into Spanish television, which at that time was still in its infancy."
The exhibition also pays homage to Ibáñez Serrador's work as a filmmaker, highlighting his two influential films, 'La Residencia' and '¿Quién puede matar a un niño?'. These films have left a lasting impact on Spanish horror and suspense cinema, inspiring directors such as J.A. Bayona, Alejandro Amenábar, and Álex de la Iglesia.
In addition to the exhibition itself, a series of forums and screenings are scheduled to complement the experience. Notable figures such as Pepe Carabias, Alejandro Ibáñez, and Paula Ortiz will participate in discussions during May and July 2025. One of the highlights will be the screening of 'El hombre que vendió su risa', an episode that had been lost but has recently been recovered through efforts described as "television archaeology."
As Sara Fernández, the councilor for Culture, Education, and Tourism of Zaragoza, noted at the exhibition's inauguration, "This exhibition allows us to explore more facets of this great character who changed the way television was made, with shows that remain relevant despite the passage of time."
The exhibition not only serves as a tribute to Ibáñez Serrador's contributions to television but also as a reminder of the cultural significance of his work in shaping Spanish media. Visitors can expect to encounter a wealth of memorabilia, including original costumes from 'Las Tacañonas', scripts, and even the original plates used for the cars given away on 'Un, dos, tres'.
As attendees walk through the exhibition, they will find themselves immersed in the world of Ibáñez Serrador, experiencing firsthand the creativity and innovation that defined his career. The display of 'Rupertas', the iconic character from 'Un, dos, tres', is present in various sizes and formats, including a painting created by Aragonese painter Manuel Viola, which was intended as a gift for the show but never found a recipient.
Two rooms are dedicated to the 'Un, dos, tres' program, where fans can see the original sets and props that played a crucial role in the show's success. The exhibition also showcases the merchandising that emerged from the program, ranging from plush toys to watches and mobile phone cases, reflecting its immense popularity.
Furthermore, the exhibition is designed to engage the public with guided tours available every Thursday, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the life and works of Chicho Ibáñez Serrador. These tours will be conducted at 6:30 PM, and prior registration is required.
As the exhibition continues, it promises to be a significant cultural event in Zaragoza, celebrating not only the life of a television pioneer but also the enduring legacy of his work that continues to resonate with audiences today.
