Contemporary Playwriting: Trends and Evolution in Catalan Theater

Evolution of Contemporary Playwriting

In the 1970s, numerous independent theater groups emerged, fundamentally changing the concept of dramatic text. Writers moved away from isolation; instead of simply staging a literary text, the entire group became involved in the creation and production process.

Today, authors continue to develop the performance of verbal material while remaining deeply involved in the assembly process, leading to a transformation of playwriting. The text has been released from old conventions, and previously unquestionable procedures—such as dialogue, temporal and spatial coordinates, and dramatic conflict—are now frequently questioned.

Current Trends in Catalan Theater

In contemporary Catalan theatrical writing, we observe several distinct trends:

• a) Irony and Humor: A drama that examines reality through irony and humor, combining experimentation with comedy. A key figure is Sergi Belbel, whose hits are closely linked to stage practice.
• b) Opaque Theatricality: A strategy employing broken dialogue filled with repeated questions, silences, and omissions, where communication becomes a battle tactic. Developed in workshops by Sanchis Sinisterra at the Sala Beckett in Barcelona, its greatest exponents include Lluïsa Cunillé and Paco Zarzoso.
• c) Reflective Realism: Playwrights interested in approaching reality and contemporary problems from a reflective, non-trivial perspective, such as Toni Cabré and Manel Dueso.
• d) Traditional Comedy: Works inspired by simple, lightweight, and well-constructed comedy, represented by Carles Alberola, Paco Mir, and Jordi Galceran.
• e) Theater of Irritation: A style that involves, inconveniences, and rebukes the public to provoke a reaction, exemplified by Roger Bernat.

The Valencian Theater Scene

In the Valencia region, a new generation of playwrights consolidated during the last quarter of the 20th century, including exceptional figures like Rodolf Sirera and Manuel Molins.

Key Valencian Playwrights

• Manuel Molins: Author of works inspired by historical events and characters, such as Dansa de vetlatori and Quatre històries d'amor per a la Reina Soraya. His production also includes melodrama (Tango), comedy (Ni alts, ni baixos), and experimental proposals like Viatgers d'absenta.
• Rodolf Sirera: A key figure in the renewal of contemporary Valencian theater. He is the author of an abundant production, including El verí del teatre, which has been performed worldwide. He has also created numerous adaptations and has specialized as a television scriptwriter since 1995.