The Teatro Cuyás in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria kicks off its new season this Friday and Saturday with a sold-out production of “Malquerida,” a contemporary adaptation of Jacinto Benavente’s classic play. Starring Aitana Sánchez-Gijón, the performances start at 7:30 PM.
During a press event on Thursday, cultural cabinet member Guacimara Medina, artistic director Gonzalo Ubani, producer Mónica Regueiro, director Natalia Menéndez, and Sánchez-Gijón highlighted the production’s relevance in today’s world. Medina noted that opening the season with “Malquerida” demonstrates the enduring significance of the work, calling it a “fantastic theatrical piece” with “stunning relevance” even today.
Sánchez-Gijón, who last performed in Benavente’s works nearly four decades ago, expressed excitement about returning, now playing Raimunda, the mother of her original character, Acacia. She shared, “When Natalia proposed this project, I was very impacted; this had to happen, there was no other way.”
The adaptation, led by Menéndez and Juan Carlos Rubio, reimagines the family drama focused on love, secrets, hidden passions, and violence. The story begins with Acacia’s wedding proposal, which turns tragic when her fiancé is murdered that night. As suspicions arise, the play reveals deeper truths lurking within the community.
Menéndez explained that the adaptation removed some elements of traditionalism, elevating other characters and focusing on the “tragic perfume” of Benavente’s writing. She pointed out that themes of “violence” and “hidden passions” remain relevant, while also introducing humour and tenderness.
The production features eight actors from various generations, with Regueiro emphasizing their powerful on-stage chemistry. This new version of “Malquerida” brings to life family conflicts, desires, and secrets that lead to tragic outcomes, marking the start of the theatre’s season with a poignant exploration of human struggles.
