Spanish Residency

From September 3rd to 8th, the picturesque “Campiña Segoviana” served as the backdrop for the second transnational artistic residency of ImproLANDS, organised by the Cultural Association Las Cosas Que Hacemos from Madrid’s multicultural Hortaleza district. This exceptional initiative not only built upon the foundations set in Italy but also strengthened international ties among rural communities.

The support from several local administrations empowered the project, providing the necessary resources to accommodate international artists and foster a meaningful exchange with the residents. Under the guidance of talented improvisers and actors such as Fernando Molina, Ernesto Zuazo and Edu Moraleda, the Spanish team created a collaborative environment where participants from Italy, Romania, and Greece could explore innovative tools and methodologies.

This residency placed a strong emphasis on the concept of “viewpoints” in improvisation, enriched by sensory theatre from Ernesto Zuazo and various exercises drawn from previous workshops. Central to the experience was a commitment to immerse artists in the local communities, demonstrating the project’s dedication to a “place-based approach.”

Set in Miguel Ibáñez, a small village facing depopulation with a rich history, the residency provided a unique opportunity for musicians, actors, and community members to connect authentically. The dwindling population of the village, which has shrunk from 300-400 residents in the 1950s to just 17 today, offered visiting artists a poignant lens through which to understand changes and challenges.

A highlight of the week was an engaging improv workshop conducted in collaboration with Segovia’s LGTBI Association: Segovia Entiende which included local youth from Torrecaballeros. The support from the Torrecaballeros Town Hall greatly enhanced the collaboration, bringing the event to life.

The residency culminated in two vibrant events. The first—a festive gathering in Muñopedro—featured folk music, a communal meal, and a joyful participatory improv performance that captured the heart of the village. Special thanks to the village residents and Town Hall for their invaluable support in making this event a reality.
The second event, a formal theatrical performance hosted by theTown Hall of Coca, showcased the format conceived in Italy. Despite a smaller audience due to the season’s change, the enthusiasm of attendees sparked rich discussions about the village’s history and its current challenges, fulfilling the project’s objectives and enhancing community engagement.

The insights gleaned from this residency underscore the vital role of open communication and active community participation. An open invitation model proved essential for the event’s success, fostering a welcoming environment for involvement and interaction.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in this journey: Manolo, Ana, and Víctor from Casa Rural de Miguel Ibáñez, CIT Campiñas Segovianas, the supportive Town Halls, particularly in Muñopedro, the government team of Torrecaballeros, and especially the LGTBI Association of Segovia, SegoviaEntiende, for their invaluable contributions.