Puerto del Rosario is gearing up to become a vibrant hub of cultural activity with its upcoming program ‘A Contracultura,’ set to unfold from September 1 to September 5. This week-long festival promises to be an enriching experience, featuring a diverse array of events designed to engage audiences of all ages.
The festivities kick off on Monday, September 1, with the inauguration of two exciting art exhibitions. One show will focus on countercultural themes, showcasing the works of various talented Canarian artists. Meanwhile, a simultaneous exhibition will feature the work of renowned artist William Rocchi, titled ‘Dedicado a Entre Realismo y Simbolismo.’ This exhibition will be open for public viewing in the Casa de la Cultura until September 30, allowing visitors ample time to appreciate Rocchi’s inspiring art.
Tuesday, September 2, marks the tenth edition of ‘Puerto es Poesía,’ a celebration of poetry headlined by the esteemed Premio Canarias de Literatura winner, Cecilia Domínguez Luis, alongside the talented writer Ricardo Hernández Bravo. This captivating evening will be complemented by a live saxophone performance by Sergio García, making it an unmissable event for poetry lovers.
Wednesday, September 3, the literary spotlight shifts to history with the presentation of the book ‘Franco’ by historian Julián Casanova. In this meticulous biography, Casanova explores the life of the infamous dictator fifty years after his death, offering a critical perspective that is both revealing and necessary for understanding Spain’s past.
Thursday, September 4, promises to be especially eventful. The evening will feature a talk by TVE photojournalist Manuel Ovalle, who will share insights from his memoir ‘Ovalle, reportero gráfico.’ With experiences spanning 135 countries and 15 war zones, Ovalle’s stories will provide a unique glimpse into the life of a war correspondent, including a firsthand account of Francisco Franco’s funeral. Later that night, the Plaza de la Paz will host a lively performance of ‘Es mi hombre’ by the Livianas Provincianas theatre company. This vibrant cabaret will revive classic cuplés, blending humor, live music, and improvisation for an unforgettable show.
The festival will culminate on Friday, September 5, with a grand concert in the Plaza de la Paz starting at 7 PM. Attendees can look forward to a thrilling lineup featuring performances by Jimenos Band, Xente y la Banda, Ochenteros, Supawayah, and a stunning U2 tribute. This climactic event will undoubtedly leave the audience with lasting memories and a sense of shared cultural joy.

David de Vera, Mayor of Puerto del Rosario, emphasized the festival’s importance, stating, “This week exemplifies our understanding of culture: diverse, open, and capable of evoking emotions while encouraging reflection. Puerto del Rosario transforms into a vibrant stage where arts, memory, and music intertwine.”
Cultural Councillor Juan Manuel Verdugo also highlighted the significance of ‘A Contracultura’ as a cultural reference on the island, stating, “This programming reflects our commitment to offering diverse, high-quality activities that resonate with people. We invite all citizens to join us and enjoy each of the planned events.”


