Zaragoza is preparing to revisit a theatrical landmark as the acclaimed production of Metrópolis returns to the Teatro Principal from February 20th to 22nd, 2026. This restaging coincides with the 100th anniversary of Fritz Lang’s groundbreaking 1927 silent film, a cornerstone of expressionist cinema, and marks a return to the stage where the adaptation first premiered in December 2007. The production promises a fusion of theatre, dance, and live music, offering a contemporary interpretation of a cinematic masterpiece.
The original theatrical adaptation, a large-scale undertaking by Teatro de las Esquinas, managed by Producciones Che y Moche and Teatro del Temple, garnered significant recognition, culminating in the prestigious Premio Max for Best Revelation Show in 2010. This revival aims to recapture that initial spark while incorporating fresh perspectives and showcasing the talents of a new generation of artists. The enduring appeal of Metrópolis lies in its exploration of societal structures and the human condition, themes that continue to resonate with audiences today.
A Local Collaboration Brings Metrópolis to Life
What sets this production apart is its strong emphasis on local talent. Five performers—Javier Zapater, Sandra Recamal, Mery Luz Moya, Ana Arguilé, and Miguel Pardillo—all trained at the Escuela Municipal de Teatro de Zaragoza, will take to the stage. They will be joined by thirteen dancers from the Conservatorio Profesional de Danza de Zaragoza, creating a dynamic ensemble. Adding another layer of artistry, the Academia para la Nueva Música of the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Aragón will provide the live musical accompaniment, composing an original score specifically for the production. This collaborative spirit underscores the city’s commitment to fostering its artistic community.
The creative team is led by Víctor Rebullida, whose original music is central to the show’s dramatic structure and poetic impact. The production isn’t simply a recreation of the film; it’s a reinterpretation of Metrópolis through the language of movement, gesture, and sound. This approach allows the production to engage with the source material in a new and compelling way, offering a unique theatrical experience.
From Silent Film to Stage Spectacle
Metrópolis, set in a futuristic city, depicts a stark division between the wealthy elite and the exploited working class. The original film, known for its stunning visual design and social commentary, has had a lasting influence on science fiction and filmmaking. This adaptation, as noted in reviews following its initial run, seeks to capture the essence of Lang’s vision while translating it into a live performance. The Teatro Principal’s production embraces the expressive codes of German Expressionism, utilizing the physicality of the performers to recreate the narrative of the silent film from a contemporary viewpoint.
The production’s creators emphasize that the work aims to spark dialogue about contemporary issues, including the importance of European unity as a foundation for social cohesion through art and culture. The return of Metrópolis to the Teatro Principal is not merely a nostalgic revisit but a statement about the enduring power of art to reflect and challenge the world around us.
Performance Details and Ticket Information
Performances of Metrópolis are scheduled for February 20th and 21st at 8:00 PM, and February 22nd at 7:00 PM at the Teatro Principal in Zaragoza. Tickets are priced at 25€ and the performance has a runtime of 60 minutes. A discounted performance is scheduled for February 20th, and the production is recommended for audiences aged 14 and up. More information and tickets are available on the Teatro Principal Zaragoza website.
The Teatro Principal’s decision to stage Metrópolis is part of a broader effort to commemorate the centennial of Lang’s film and to celebrate the legacy of this cinematic masterpiece. The production promises to be a captivating blend of visual spectacle, musical innovation, and theatrical artistry, offering audiences a fresh perspective on a timeless story. The city of Zaragoza is poised to once again experience the power and resonance of Metrópolis, a testament to the enduring influence of both the original film and its theatrical adaptation.
Following the Zaragoza performances, You’ll see currently no further scheduled dates for Metrópolis. But, given the production’s previous success and the significance of the centennial celebration, additional performances may be announced. Updates and information regarding future showings can be found on the Teatro Principal Zaragoza website.
Share your thoughts on the return of this iconic production and the enduring legacy of Metrópolis in the comments below.
