THEATRE

This is a show with a difference. We begin with guitar music from Fernando Alonso – excellently played. Then Maria, the bullfighter’s girlfriend, (Violeta Orgaz) tells us how she opposes bullfighting, but is drawn to the bullfighter himself and wants to understand him. Next the bullfighter himself (Diego Hidalgo) appears with his devoted assistant, friend and dresser (Ruben Martin-Vegue). There is no doubting dresser Juan’s love of his job and of his friend, but the avoidance of stated desire is more subtle here than in another show I saw this year which parallels this one in some ways. Juan warns his friend of the danger of women, and how they can detract from a bullfighter’s commitment.

These two make a stunning pair, and, yes, there is male nudity – beautiful bodies do not a drama make, but these two are special. The pace here is slow and requires patience, and at times almost as in a Noh drama small movements on Juan’s part are significant, and small smiles.

If you are pleased by a stylised drama, one where the eye is ravished, and where you can relax and enjoy an easy pace, you will find this satisfying.