The distinct Spanish form of musical theater, Zarzuela is currently experiencing a renaissance.
The Festival Castell de Peralada in the historical castle of Catalonia celebrates this new found vitality with a staging of El Rey Que Rabio by Valencian maestro Ruperto Chapi (1851-1909) on July 25, 2009.
According to the program this Comic Zarzuela* in three acts
(Music by Ruperto Chapi,
Libretto by Miguel Ramos Carrion and Vital Aza) had its premiere in Madrid at La Zarzuela Theatre on April 20, 1891.
The play was chosen as 2009 is the Chapí Year, celebrating the centennial of his death.
Since the late show starts at 10pm the Castle
Gardens Auditorium you might still have a chance to catch it if any tickets are left.
*illustration from Festival Castell de Peralada site