The countdown has begun. Iñigo Aranburu, Iñigo Azpitarte, Mireia Gabilondo and Aitziber Garmendia were yesterday the last performers to step onto the stage of the Principal Theatre. The representation of I’ve never been to Dublin It not only marked the end of La Blanca’s programming on the century-old stage. It also meant the temporary closure of the building. At least 30 months of reforms lie ahead. It remains to be seen whether the deadlines are met, but the fact is that the capital of Alava will lose its reference tables until 2027.
On December 18th, it will be 106 years since its official opening. Since then, the Principal has experienced various ups and downs, renovations, closures, adjustments and evolutions, the last major renovation being completed in 1992, that is, 32 years ago.But these profound and important works did not manage to cover up two realities that have become evident over the years. First, that, from all points of view, theatre needed to adapt to the 21st century. This is what is going to be addressed now.
The Araia Comedy Theatre Festival is rolling out its extensive programme in August, also in Álava
The second is that Vitoria requires a stage space with the capacity to host all types of shows, something that is currently impossible due to the dimensions and characteristics of the Principal. It is worth remembering that, at the end of the 1980s, the option of public institutions was to buy the Guridi Theatre – much larger in every sense – and not the building that was ultimately acquired.. So this issue will remain pending because in this section, the reform that will begin shortly, cannot contribute anything.
It’s time to raise the curtain for Ortzai
Accessibility and security
The bet with the works that will start between the end of September and October It involves uniting innovation and traditionThat is to say, the building’s structure must be respected, but every corner must be adapted to promote accessibility and safety.
29
This will result in extensive renovation work that will reduce the capacity to 842 seats and will result in improvements in all internal and external aspects. If all goes well, the public should be able to sit among the seats on San Prudencio Street again by early 2027..
Vital por Álava faces an intense August throughout the territory
Meanwhile, the stages of the Municipal Theatre Network – above all, the Félix Petite in Ibaiondo –, the Europa and the Jesús Guridi Conservatory are going to have to multiplyThe public’s response is, to this day, an unknown, although the Municipal Music Band of Vitoria has already sold out all its season tickets for the upcoming season at the Congress Palace. It could be a mirage or an indication. Time will tell.
