The Teatro Circo Atanasio Díe Marín has opened its doors to the 37th Regional School Theatre Festival, a long-running cultural and educational event that will bring pupils from schools across the Vega Baja to the stage throughout May.
Orihuela’s Councillor for Education, Vicente Pina, officially opened this year’s festival, highlighting the continuity of an initiative that, in his words, has spent 37 years proving “the strength and value of theatre”.
A total of nine schools are taking part in the programme, which features 27 performances running until 28 May. Shows will take place in the mornings from 10am and will be open to the public.
During the opening, Pina stressed the importance of theatre in education, not only as an artistic activity but also as a way for pupils to learn teamwork, build confidence and develop communication skills. He also praised the work behind each production, recognising the commitment of teachers, the effort of students and the support of families.
The councillor said the festival also gives many young people the chance to take their first steps on stage, with some going on to pursue further involvement in acting and performance.
The Regional School Theatre Festival remains one of Orihuela’s most established educational events, bringing together schools from different municipalities and offering a full programme throughout the month. Pina encouraged residents to visit the Teatro Circo and enjoy the students’ work.
Dance takes to the streets in Parque de la Ocarasa
During the opening, Pina also referred to the event held on 29 April to mark International Dance Day.
The Municipal Dance School staged an open-air performance in Parque de la Ocarasa, attracting around 400 people. Pina described it as “a spectacle” and said it was satisfying to see the work being carried out by the school.
The event showcased the students’ work under the direction of María Jesús Ruiz and helped bring dance closer to the public outside traditional performance spaces.
