A theatrical production is set to run at Teatro da Cerca de São Bernardo until June 15, presenting a fable about two villages divided by a bridge and facing various natural disasters and a contagious disease, which only plague one of the communities.
Beginning in spring and tracing the seasons to the following spring, the narrative starts in an idyllic setting reminiscent of a fairy tale. This is followed by a “catastrophic summer” highlighting the effects of climate change, a dreamlike autumn, and a “harsh, very cold winter that punishes those without resources,” explained Ánxeles Cuña Bóveda, the director from Sarabela Teatro, in an interview.
As time progresses, inequalities become more pronounced, with themes of migration and refugees featured, and the ties between the neighboring villages dissipate.
Ánxeles Cuña Bóveda expressed that Schimmelpfennig’s dramaturgy “moves by writing about current, very hot topics, but does so very vividly, expressing feelings strongly.”
“This is a very powerful, dynamic work that explores many levels,” in an open script by someone “who knows the theatrical machinery very well,” she affirmed.
Although this marks the first co-production between the two companies, the relationship between Escola da Noite and Sarabela Teatro “spans over 20 years” of mutual knowledge and respect, she noted.
Following this collaboration, in 2026, António Augusto Barros, director of Escola da Noite, will direct another production in Ourense, Galicia, featuring a cast of Portuguese and Galician actors.
At Teatro da Cerca, there will be sessions with Portuguese Sign Language on June 8 and 13.
After its run in Coimbra, “O Grande Incêndio” will be presented in Ourense from June 18 to 20.
Tickets are priced between five and ten euros.
