Teatro de la Zarzuela’s ‘Bohemios’ Brings Spanish Lyric Heritage to a New Generation

The Teatro de la Zarzuela is presenting a new production of Bohemios, as part of its Zarza Project, an initiative designed to connect the lyrical genre with younger audiences. The production, which premiered at the Teatro de la Zarzuela in 1904 and accumulated over 18,000 performances within 25 years, features a cast and orchestra comprised of young artists aged 18 to 30.

A Modern Take on a Classic

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Zarza Project, which selects artists through an audition process and, since last season, collaborates with musicians from the National Youth Orchestra of Spain (JONDE). The current adaptation of Bohemios, with a libretto by Guillermo Perrín and Miguel de Palacios (with revisions by Nando López), transposes the original Parisian setting to modern-day Madrid. López’s adaptation centers around a group of young artists navigating the city’s art scene and confronting contemporary issues.

Creative Team and Sustainable Production

Nicola Beller Carbone directs the stage production, with scenery by Carmen Castañón, costumes by Pier Paolo Álvaro, and lighting by Pedro Chamizo. Julio César Picos conducts the score, which remains faithful to the original composition by Amadeo Vives. Approximately 50 percent of the set materials have been reused from the Teatro de la Zarzuela’s existing inventory, contributing to a sustainable production.

‘Bohemios’ and the Zarza Project’s Mission

The Zarza Project aims to disseminate Spanish lyrical heritage by presenting classic works in a contemporary context. The project includes school performances, allowing young audiences to engage with the productions and discuss them with the cast and creative team. Interactive digital presentations are similarly available on the Teatro de la Zarzuela’s website.

Performance Schedule

Bohemios will have 16 performances between February 20 and March 1, including 11 shows for schools and 5 open to the public. The production will also be recorded and made available on the Teatro de la Zarzuela’s YouTube channel, continuing a practice established with previous Zarza Project productions.

A Decade of Bringing Zarzuela to New Audiences

Since its launch in the 2016/2017 season, the Zarza Project has attracted nearly 70,000 spectators, with over 50,000 being students. Previous productions have included La revoltosa, El duo de la Africana, La verbena de la Paloma, Agua, azucarillos y aguardiente, Amores en zarza, El sobre verde, Yo te querré, Last year by water, and La Gran Vía. In 2021, the project received the Ópera XXI Award for the Best Initiative to Promote Lyrics.