The Rich Cultural Heritage of Betancuria: A Journey Through the Auto de los Reyes Magos
Betancuria, nestled in the heart of Fuerteventura, is not just a picturesque village; it is a vibrant community steeped in tradition and history. Known for its commitment to preserving the cultural tapestry of its ancestry, the residents of Betancuria are set to stage a remarkable event: the Auto de los Reyes Magos. This theatrical performance, which holds deep religious significance, is making a return after a hiatus of 14 years.
A Community Comes Together
The upcoming production will take place this Saturday in the historic villa, as a host of around 70 actors—including about 30 amateur performers—will breathe life into this age-old tradition. Months of rehearsals have prepared these dedicated locals for their roles, showcasing the spirit and unity of the community. As the sun begins to set, the procession will make its way to the village square around 6:00 PM, with the performance expected to begin at 7:00 PM.
Everyday Heroes Become Actors
What makes this representation special is its cast composed of ordinary citizens from various professions. Among the performers are a police officer, a farmer, a teacher, a security guard, a firefighter, and an engineer—showcasing that art can indeed emerge from everyday life. Families are also getting involved, with a father and his two daughters portraying scribes, and a whole family stepping into the roles of Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus.
The Artistic Direction
Under the artistic direction of Mari Lola Calero, the residents of Betancuria will enact the tale of the Three Wise Men. The cast includes notable local figures such as David Umpiérrez as Herod, Gadifer Saavedra as Melchor, and Moisés Padilla as Gaspar, to name just a few. Alejandra Peña and Lorenzo Mateo will serve as narrators, guiding the audience through this enchanting story.
Engaging the Younger Generation
The involvement doesn’t stop there; children from local schools, members of the Pájara School of Music, and riders from the El Valle Equestrian School are all contributing to the production. This diverse collaboration speaks volumes about how the community unites to preserve and promote its artistic traditions.
A Legacy Revived
The Auto de los Reyes Magos dates back to the 1930s, when local schoolteacher Dolores Fajardo, affectionately known as “Mama Lola,” first adapted the text and orchestrated the initial performances with the villagers. After her, former mayor Amparo Torres continued the tradition until the 1980s.
In 2011, Mari Lola Calero revitalized this beloved tradition that had faded over the decades. By revisiting the original text and making minor updates, she galvanized community participation, leading to the revival that will unfold tomorrow in the village square and around the church.
Costuming and Production Challenges
Mari Lola’s role has been pivotal in rekindling the theatrical representation. Remarkably, much of the original costuming was either unusable or had fallen into disrepair, with a few exceptions, like the robes worn by the scribes. She masterminded the creation of new costumes, providing her expertise without charging the community, as 95% of the garments were crafted anew for the event.
A Glimpse into the Origin
The Auto de los Reyes Magos is one of the oldest forms of written theater in the Spanish language, dating back to the 12th century. The three kings symbolize the diverse races and continents known in ancient times—Europe, Asia, and Africa—as well as the three stages of life, each bringing unique gifts to the newborn Christ child.
The Essence of Betancuria
In every aspect—be it through the grassroots participation of local residents, the artistic revival led by passionate locals, or the rich tradition that is being honored—Betancuria exemplifies how communities can come together to celebrate and perpetuate their unique heritage. This event promises to be much more than a simple theatrical performance; it is a heartfelt tribute to identity, history, and the power of communal spirit. As the day nears, excitement is palpable, and the village is ready to embrace the performance that lovingly narrates their profound story—a story worth sharing with the world.
