TEATR21 to Stage 'Seven Cruel Stories' National Premiere in Estepona

A Polish theatre group featuring actors with Down syndrome and autism will present the national premiere of 'Seven Cruel Stories' at Auditorio Felipe VI

Estepona residents and visitors have a unique cultural experience to look forward to this November. Estepona Town Hall's 'Compartiendo Culturas' (Sharing Cultures) project continues next week with the national premiere of 'Seven Cruel Stories' (Siete historias crueles) at Auditorio Felipe VI.

This thought-provoking theatrical production is directed by Justyna Wielgus, with dramaturgy by Justyna Lipko-Konieczna. It invites the audience to reconsider humanity's relationship with animals, freedom, ethics, and domination.

The play will be performed by the Polish group TEATR21, renowned for its cast primarily composed of professionals with Down syndrome and autism. The company has achieved significant international success. The performance will be in Polish, with electronic subtitles in Spanish. It is recommended for audiences aged 16 and over.

Inspired by Sunaura Taylor's book 'Beasts of Burden: Animal and Disability Liberation', the show broadens the debate on disability, autonomy, and exclusion. It explores the hierarchies established between living beings. Through irreverent humour, unexpected associations, and a critical look at culture and history, the work challenges our certainties. It invites us to imagine alternative ways of co-existing.

'Seven Cruel Stories' does not offer comfortable answers or aim to dictate a moral lesson. Its strength lies in its ability to confront us with our own contradictions. It questions the privileges of the human species and opens a space for new forms of sensitivity, recognition, and freedom.

Reflective Workshop Also Scheduled

In addition to the play, TEATR21 will host a workshop on Sunday, 15 November 2026, at 12:00. This event will take place at the Casa de las Tejerinas, situated in Plaza de Las Flores. The company will lead a discussion on ensuring fairer participation for people with disabilities in the performing arts. The actors will speak in Polish, with an interpreter providing translation into Spanish.

During the workshop, the group will also discuss the play itself, which will be performed the following day, Monday, 16 November 2026, at 19:00. The company demonstrates that accessibility and social inclusion transcend borders and human limitations.

Tickets for 'Seven Cruel Stories' can be purchased via the theatre's website, teatroestepona.com.

The 'Compartiendo Culturas' project is co-financed by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage of Poland. It also receives support from the Polish Institute of Culture in Madrid and the Adam Mickiewicz Institute.