Students from Juan Orobiogoitia Institute have created a play based on the experiences of Pedro Gallastegi, a native of Zaldibar, who lived through the Civil War at just nine years old. The theatrical piece initially depicts his family's daily life in Zaldibar, until the arrival of the Requetés in the town forced them to flee towards Gernika. The creators have indicated that the play has a sad ending, similar to many other stories from that era.
Meanwhile, students from Durango Institute have developed a play inspired by the life of Maria Luisa Ruiz Arana. This work focuses on the loss of identity and broken family ties caused by the war, narrating Maria Luisa's and her family's desperate search for her brother, who disappeared for two years due to the conflict.
“"Some time later, in Maria Luisa's adolescence, she and her family went to the administration looking for a clue, but the system ignored them. The play narrates that desperation."
Izei Irastorza and Enea Arza, 15-year-old students from Juan Orobiogoitia Institute, have participated in the performance. Irastorza took on the challenge of embodying Pedro Gallastegi and explained that the play helped him better understand the terrible circumstances of the war. Arza, for his part, participated in the dance segment and stated that he felt a “special connection” with the story because he is also from Zaldibar, which allowed him to recognize the neighborhoods and names mentioned in the play.
The students expressed that they are “a bit nervous” and “eager” for the premiere, as they have never performed on such a large stage before. They emphasized that the play is the result of months of work, with many hours dedicated to the project outside of school hours.
After its premiere in Durango, the plays will also be presented in Donostia (May 8), Gasteiz (May 15), and Gernika (May 22).
