La del Manojo de Rosas
Teatro de la Zarzuela
This production of La del Manojo de Rosas, directed by Emilio Sagi, has become a modern classic of Spanish lyrical theatre. With music by Pablo Sorozábal and a libretto by Anselmo C. Carreño and Francisco Ramos de Castro, this zarzuela is one of the most beloved by audiences, thanks to its lively spirit, humor, and warm portrayal of Madrid in the 1930s.
Since its premiere in 1990, this version has been performed across Spain and even in cities like Rome and Paris, consistently earning praise from both audiences and critics. Sagi’s direction captures the charm and emotional depth of the
sainete (a short, comic theatrical piece), giving it a fresh, updated look while staying true to its original character.
Set in a Madrid neighborhood, the story revolves around Ascensión and Clarita, two young, independent and determined women who represent the feminine awakening of a time of change.
Through their voices and their decisions, the play reflects a society in transformation, where Sorozábal's music-full of poetry, grace and emotion- becomes the soul of a close and universal story.
With a new cast and musical direction by Guillermo García Calvo, this production is just as exciting and powerful as it was 30 years ago.
La del Manojo de Rosas is not only a tribute to Madrid during the Republican era, but also a celebration of zarzuela as a living art form—one that keeps evolving and continues to touch the hearts of new generations.
