El barberillo de Lavapiés
El barberillo de Lavapiés is one of the most joyful and iconic pieces in the Spanish lyrical tradition. With music by Francisco Asenjo Barbieri and a libretto by Luis Mariano de Larra, this work has stood the test of time as a symbol of Madrid’s traditional spirit and musical theater. It’s considered a masterpiece of Spanish musical history and a shining example of both Madrilenian character and Hispanic lyrical art.
In this new production, stage director Alfredo Sanzol emphasizes the comic and adventurous aspects of the story, while staying true to its underlying pursuit of beauty. For Sanzol, comedy is a powerful and freeing tool, it allows us to explore life’s conflicts with both depth and lightness. The plot follows the charming and lovable characters Lamparilla and Paloma, whose story intertwines with the romantic entanglements of Marquesita Estrella and Don Luis. All of this unfolds against a political backdrop marked by the transition between the governments of Grimaldi and Floridablanca. The musical direction is led by José Miguel Pérez-Sierra, who brings out the richness of Barbieri’s score, considered one of the high points of the zarzuela genre. The collaboration between Barbieri and Larra resulted in a work that fully captures the essence of Madrid: a story set in 18th-century Madrid, with 19th-century music, and a timeless vitality that still resonates today.
