Spanish Classical Theater in COVID-19 Times: How Andalusian Companies Dealt with the 2020 Pandemic

Abstract

Abstract: With the closure of theaters in March of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, theatrical companies in Spain were forced to change their seasonal programs. After interviewing actors, directors, and producers from different provinces of Andalusia who work with classical theater, this work exposes the difficulties that theater practitioners faced during the closures of the theaters and how they adapted to the restrictions imposed upon the reopening of theatrical spaces. These professionals explained what could or could not be adapted from their work, how long this adaptation took (or would have taken), and what other barriers they faced that are not obvious for laypersons. Furthermore, this article introduces these companies’ opinions on virtual adaptations, recordings, and other alternative forms of theater. Finally, this work reveals how theater practitioners see the future of theater and comedia after the emergence of digital performances during the pandemic.