Trapu Zaharra’s Farewell: ‘The Last One and We’re Leaving’
A History of Street Humor
Trapu Zaharra, a renowned Basque theater company, is bidding adieu after an impressive 44-year tenure in street humor with its latest performance, ‘The Last One and We’re Leaving.’ This poignant show encapsulates the ongoing tension between street theater and traditional theatrical forms, highlighting the unique journey of the company over the decades.
Santi Ugalde, one of the company’s original founders, describes the production as a relaxed farewell, likening it to a tiler retiring after a hardworking career. Ugalde emphasizes the importance of demystifying the profession of theater and, through this show, aims to step away without the sentimentality that often accompanies such farewells.
Celebrating at the International Festival of Theater and Street Arts
Trapu Zaharra’s next stop will be this weekend in Valladolid, as part of the 27th International Festival of Theater and Street Arts (TAC). The festival serves not just as a backdrop for the company’s farewell but also pays homage to the Department of Culture of the Basque Government, which has supported artistic endeavors like theirs.
Since its inception, Trapu Zaharra has thrived by transforming the limitations of their environments into artistic opportunities. Performing in the streets of Basque towns, they carved a space for street theater at a time when conventional theaters were inaccessible.
The Magic of Street Theater
Ugalde describes the essence of street theater as a direct engagement with the audience. The performances invite spectators into the playful universe of the actors, breaking down barriers and fostering a deeper connection. The company has utilized humor to tell compelling stories through more than thirty unique shows, often portraying the lives of those deemed “losers,” thus forging a relatable bond with the audience.
Despite their success, Ugalde voices concerns regarding the distribution of funding within the arts. He argues that institutional support often favors theatrical productions over street performances, which are vital for keeping the spirit of companies like Trapu Zaharra alive.
The Memories of a Colorful Journey
The humorous experiences of the company include memorable moments of confusion between performance and reality, leading to instances where they found themselves interacting with law enforcement, simply due to the vividness of their theatrical portrayals. Ugalde reflects on the more daring early days of the company, desiring a return to the ‘Vietnamese-style’ spontaneity they once embodied.
However, the psychological toll of their long journey has contributed to the decision to conclude their artistic activities. The actors acknowledge the fatigue that has accumulated over decades of performing.
A Farewell Performance with a Twist
In Valladolid, the company will present a parody based on renowned writer Miguel Delibes’ work, Five Hours with Mario. This adaptation swings the narrative into a comedic exploration of couplehood, addressing themes of loneliness and the dynamics of power in relationships.
Ugalde takes on the role of a comedian who must navigate the debate over presenting the story either in a conventional setting or on the streets, underlining the ongoing conflict between culture and entertainment.
Looking Ahead
Following their final performances at TAC, Trapu Zaharra plans to participate in other festivals such as the Bilbao Street Theater and Arts Festival and the Vitoria International Street Arts Exhibition, ensuring that their legacy in street theater lives on even as they say goodbye.
The legacy of Trapu Zaharra will undoubtedly resonate with its audience, serving as a reminder of the joy, laughter, and thought-provoking humor that street performances bring to public spaces.