Zálatta Teatro to Stage “La Cajita de Latón” in Corralejo
On April 25th, the renowned Zálatta Teatro will present its latest production, “La Cajita de Latón,” at the municipal auditorium in Corralejo, located in the municipality of La Oliva. This performance represents not only a significant event for theatrical arts lovers but also a poignant exploration of social and gender-related issues through a compelling narrative.
About the Production
“La Cajita de Latón” is a thought-provoking play written by Benjamín Lorenzo and directed by Telesforo Rodríguez. This performance is part of the MARES program initiated by the Government of the Canary Islands, in collaboration with the ICDC (Instituto Canario de Desarrollo Cultural) and the local government of La Oliva. This initiative aims to promote cultural development within the Canary Islands, showcasing the richness of local talent and the importance of community engagement in the arts.
Synopsis of the Play
Set in 1953, the story focuses on María Rosa Alonso, whose life takes a drastic turn when her application for a position as a Catedrática at the University of La Laguna is denied—not due to her lack of merit, but simply because she is a woman. The underlying political climate is also hinted at, as it suggests that her identity as a “red” (a term often used to describe communists during that era) played a role in her rejection. Faced with injustice and frustration, María Rosa makes the bold decision to renounce her position and self-exile to Venezuela.
As she grapples with her predicament, her friends gather to understand her situation and persuade her to stay. But María Rosa feels cornered, struggling to reconcile her desire for justice with the reality of her circumstances. The plot raises pivotal questions about justice, friendship, and immigration, highlighting the importance of solidarity and emotional connections, particularly through the metaphor of a little brass box that serves as a bridge between María Rosa and her friends.
The Life of María Rosa Alonso
María Rosa Alonso is not merely a fictional character; she represents a historical figure of considerable importance. Born in Tacoronte, Tenerife, in 1909, she was one of the first female university graduates in the Canary Islands. Over her long life, which spanned over a century until her passing in 2011, she garnered numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions as a literary critic, essayist, and educator. Her significant works include a lengthy thesis on the “poema de Viana,” a pivotal piece in the lyrical history of the Canary Islands, and her novel “Otra vez,” solidifying her legacy in Canarian literature.
The Cast and Crew
The cast of “La Cajita de Latón” consists of a talented ensemble: Inés Rodríguez embodies the lead character, María Rosa Alonso, while Mariant Lameda plays Candelaria, Fernando Briceño takes on the role of Manolo, and Patricia Cabrera portrays Remedios. Each actor brings depth to their characters, enriching the audience’s experience of the narrative.
Telesforo Rodríguez not only directs but also imbues the production with his artistic vision, while several other key players contribute to the behind-the-scenes efforts. Eva González serves as assistant director, and the company is responsible for the scenic design and props. Ana María Márquez handles costumes and character makeup, while Gema Hernández captures moments through photography and promotional materials. Leticia Torres oversees executive production, ensuring the smooth operation of the entire project.
Zálatta Teatro: A Cultural Institution
Founded on November 15, 1988, Zálatta Teatro was born from the partnership between Telesforo Rodríguez and Eva González. Over the years, it has grown into a celebrated theater company that has toured nationally and internationally, performing in diverse venues and festivals. The company’s productions have reached audiences across various regions, including Madrid, Barcelona, and even countries like Portugal, Argentina, and Colombia.
Zálatta Teatro primarily focuses on medium and small-scale productions that range from classical plays to contemporary works, operating under the mission to cultivate a robust audience for the performing arts. Their commitment extends beyond performance; they host workshops to foster appreciation and understanding of scenic arts, contributing to the cultural fabric of the Canary Islands.
Since 2017, the company has operated its venue, Zálatta Espacio Escénico, in Las Mercedes, Tenerife, a space that accommodates 33 spectators. Here, they not only facilitate educational endeavors but also maintain a regular season of performances from September to June, enriching the local cultural landscape.
Over its three decades of activity, Zálatta Teatro has produced around 30 significant works, with highlights like “El Principito” and “La leyenda del pequeño hombre,” among others. Their international collaborations with renowned companies and festivals attest to their artistic commitment and excellence.
In summary, “La Cajita de Latón” promises to be a compelling exploration of friendship, justice, and the immigrant experience, told through the story of one woman’s defiance against societal injustice—a must-see for anyone interested in engaging with the complexities of history, identity, and the human condition.
