Is it possible for a shed to become a cultural icon? Here at El Galpón in Montevideo, it did. El Galpón is more than just a theater. It is a symbol of Uruguayan resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of art.
El Galpón began in 1949. A group of independent actors merged their talents. They formed a theatrical institution that would resonate throughout Latin America. Imagine these early actors. They toured the neighborhoods and schools. Their mission was to bring the magic of theatre to children, especially the art of puppetry.
In 1951, El Galpón achieved a significant milestone. The group raised enough money to build its own theatre. Rosita Claret, Bruno Musitelli, and Nicolás Loureiro were the company’s first puppeteers. Under the direction of Bruno Musitelli and Juan M. Tenuta, they performed plays. These plays were written by Rosita Baffico and Argentine puppeteers Javier Villafañe and Otto Alfredo Freitas.
El Galpón expanded its mission in 1952. It created the Escuela de Titiriteros. This is a school for puppeteers. Rosita Baffico directed it starting in 1955. Later, Eduardo Di Mauro, a master of glove puppetry from Argentina, joined the group. Nicolás Loureiro guided the institution. It grew in size and reputation. Jorge Curi, Miguel Cherro, Juver Salcedo, and Aída Rodríguez later directed it.
The repertoire of El Galpón includes original works and adaptations. Rosita Baffico, Di Mauro, and Alejandro Casona contributed. Other playwrights include Joaquín Gómez Bas and Serafín José García. Works by Javier Villafañe, Mané Bernardo, and Rolando Speranza were also performed. Hugo Bolón, Montiel Ballesteros, and especially Federico García Lorca enriched the theater. Do not forget Cervantes.
El Galpón faced a dark chapter. During Uruguay’s military dictatorship, the theatre was closed in 1976. Its members were forced into exile in Mexico City. But even in exile, El Galpón did not lose hope. It transformed itself into a “fortress of culture”. The group presented around twenty-five puppet theatre plays for adults and children. They performed over 2,500 shows throughout Mexico.
The return to civilian rule in 1984 marked a new beginning. El Galpón returned to Uruguay. It resumed its activities with renewed vigor.
Over the years, El Galpón has staged many notable shows. “Comino va a la selva” directed by Carlos Converso in 1985 was a hit. “La valija de Petrucho” directed by Blanca Loureiro in 1987 captivated audiences. “Atención Bicho Colorado” directed by Bernardo Galli in 1990 entertained many. “Un dos, tre… cuatro, cinco” directed by Elbio Ferrario in 1991 was also popular. “La niña que riega la albahaca” and “El retablillo de Don Cristóbal” directed by Juan Gentile in 1997 were memorable.
In 1964, El Galpón acquired the Cine Gran Palace. It is located on Avenida 18 de Julio. The building was transformed into a theatre. Today, it houses three halls. The main hall is named after César Campodónico. The smaller halls are named Atahualpa and Cero.
El Galpón stands as a testament to the power of theatre. It overcame adversity. It continues to inspire. It enriches the cultural landscape of Uruguay. Its story is one of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to the arts.