Once the Spaniards decided for themselves: life is a holiday. And they made this argument a style of existence. Since then, wherever you go in Spain - to big cities or small villages - you will find yourself everywhere to a celebration or a festival. Perhaps it will be absolutely unique, held only in this corner of the country.
Some of these holidays eventually become national treasures. These include the festival of contemporary art "Greek" in Barcelona - Festival Grec de Barcelona. It is simply called the Barcelona Festival, and even shorter - El Grec.
It all began at the dawn of the 70s of the twentieth century with an action by a small group of actors, writers and artists. They gave several outstanding performances at the Greek Theater. The unusual performance attracted public attention. The name of the theater was given by the construction in the form of an ancient Greek amphitheater, and it is located on the Montjuic mountain, not far from Barcelona. Today it is not the only concert venue of the festival, but it is always the center of major events.
El Grec was first held in 1976, and its program was based on dramatic works. But when you come to the festival today, you will see an abundance of genres, not only traditional, but also original. The Barcelona Festival is packed with theatrical performances, circus shows, dance performances and innovative art forms.
"The Greek" eventually became popular, prestigious and generally grew into the largest cultural event in the capital of Catalonia, quite significant for contemporary world art. It is no coincidence that the spectators of the festival in different years met here Peter Brook, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Romeo Castellucci, Javier Rudd, Hiroaki Umed and many other great masters of the stage.
In addition to the Greek Theater, festival programs can be seen on such famous stages in Barcelona as the gallery of the Miro Foundation, Montjuic and others. During the month, many free open-air shows are held here.
Responsibilities for the development of the festival at the municipal and international level are entrusted to the Deputy Mayor of Barcelona for Culture, Education and Creativity. Last year, theater director and artist Ramon Vignes became the director of the status event for a four-year term.
Among the main sponsors of El Grec is the Coca Cola company, and its participants travel by the transport of the Renault concern.
