Austin Shakespeare
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2023-El Cid

There are three great Spanish epic poems, and each of them tell tales of valor and honor in medieval times. However, the “Cantar de Mio Cid” stands out as the oldest and best preserved of these classic works of Spanish literature. Also called the “Poema de Mio Cid,” this legendary work recounts the struggles of Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, the famed “el Cid,” as he attempts to preserve his honor after being exiled by King Alfonso VI.

WHERE
The Rollins Theater
Long Center for the Performing Arts
701 W Riverside Drive
Austin, Texas 78704

WHEN
November 10 - 26, 2023

PIERRE CORNEILLE’S EL CID

Directed by Ann CiccolellA
Translation by Michael Meigs

First performed in the 17th century, the popular play is the dramatic tale of how Rodrigo Diego becomes the hero El Cid while he faces conflicts with the love of his life, Ximèna, and her noble father. “El Cid features everything from inner conflict to virtuoso dueling,” said Austin Shakespeare Artistic Director Ann Ciccolella. “We’re very proud to bring this rarely performed Romantic French classic to Austin.”

El Cid will feature several actors new to Austin Shakespeare. The hero is played by Sebastian Vitale, who has been acting in Austin since 2020 when he arrived from Buenos Aires, Argentina with a career in TV, film and stage musicals. Ximèna is played by Veronica Kraemer, whose career includes recent acting jobs in France and Italy. Also new to the company is Nolan Muña, who plays Ximèna’s father, Count Gomes.

CREATIVE TEAM

Directed by Ann Ciccolella; Scenery and Lighting by Patrick W. Anthony; Costumes by Cecelia Gay; Original Music by Jeff Britting; Fight Choreography by Tobie Minor; Translation by Michael Meigs; Spanish Language Consultant Ana Duclaud; Vocal Coach Kate Glasheen; Properties Coordinator Liz Tyson

CAST OF CHARACTERS

  • Don Rodrigo (El Cid) – Ximèna's lover, son of Don Diego by Sebastian Vitale*

  • Ximèna – Daughter of Don Gomez by Veronica Kraemer

  • Don Gomez, Count of Gomez – father of Ximène, General of Castile by Nolan Muña*

  • Don Diego – Father of Don Rodríguez by Ev Lunning

  • Don Fernand – King of Castile by Rupert Reyes

  • Don Sancho – in love with Ximèna by Pablo Muñoz-Evers

  • Elvira – Ximèna's governess by Vanessa Alvarado Flores

  • Don Arias – nobleman of Castile by Joaquin Gonzalez

  • Don Alonso – nobleman of Castile by Joseph Paz

  • Princess – daughter to King of Castile by Eliza Renner

  • Leonora – Lady-in-Waiting to Princess by Darby Williams

  • *appearing through an agreement between Austin Shakespeare and Actors' Equity Assn., the union of professional actors and stage managers