El Mejor Cuplé — Poster Design
In a project that seamlessly blended graphic art with theatrical performance, I undertook a multifaceted role, encompassing graphic design responsibilities as well as being an integral part of the acting crew and production team. Our project centered around a unique event at the local venue “El Mejor Cuplé,” where a group of women of various ages gathered to reconnect with the music of their grandparents’ era. This gathering served as a platform for them to engage in conversations about their experiences and insights, all set to the backdrop of nostalgic and humorous cuplés.
Mixing Generations through Humor and Music
Our project aimed to blend the humorous essence of our grandparents, who enjoyed the witty and often risqué cuplés, with the contemporary flair of popular monologues. Directed by María Jesús Varona, the event was a celebration of intergenerational connections, humor, and the enduring charm of cuplés. For more information on the cultural significance of theatrical performances, visit The story of theatre.
The Cultural Legacy of the Cuplé
The cuplé, a risqué and popular Spanish theatre song style, thrived in the late 19th century. Initially featured in the “género ínfimo” cabaret theatre from 1893–1911, these songs, often with spicy lyrics and double meanings, were performed by solo female singers or men in drag, mainly entertaining male audiences. However, in the early 20th century, the cuplé evolved into a more respectable form, suitable for family audiences, and contributed to the rise of stars in the Spanish theatre, such as Aurora Jauffret, “La Goya.” The term “cuplé” is derived from the French word couplet, although in Spanish, a poetic couplet is typically known as a pareado or dístico. The cuplé also laid the groundwork for the 1930s’ copla.
This project not only showcased artistic and theatrical talent but also served as a bridge connecting different generations through the shared enjoyment of music and humor. It was a tribute to the cuplé’s rich cultural heritage and its impact on Spanish entertainment and society.
For those interested in the fusion of historical music styles with contemporary performance art, this project offers a unique perspective on how traditional forms of entertainment can be revitalized and appreciated by new generations.