Agustinópolis

Agustina Bessa-Luís’ world-view and work were described by Eduardo Lourenço as follows: “Stories of creatures whom the novelist always depicts in a state of self-destruction.” A gallery of such figures can be found in Agustinópolis, an operatic-theatrical show that celebrates the writer’s idiosyncratic oeuvre, a co-creation of the Teatro O Bando company and Associação Setúbal Voz, staged by João Brites and musically directed by Jorge Salgueiro. Excerpts from various books by Agustina Bessa-Luís are used to create a plethora of characters in transit, searching for a land where they may find a country or a family. Some search for a meaning for their life, shout, sing, become angry; while others try to restrain their urges, which generates conflict and tension. Sometimes, they go their own way; at other times, they force themselves to share a space with others. In the time-machine that is Agustinópolis, each rising community is always just one step away from crumbling under the weight of mutual distrust. However, the multiplicity of their voices connects us with the richness of the human experience, as well as with Agustina’s humour and wit.