The La Laguna City Council, in conjunction with the Department of Culture, is presenting ‘Finados. A tale of traditional Canarian witchcraft’ this Saturday, November 2. This theatrical event highlights the customary observance of the Night of the Dead in the Canary Islands. The performance is not recommended for individuals under 15 years old and will take place at the Santo Domingo Convent, commencing at 7:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased via tickety.es.
Led by the historian and populariser Néstor Verona, the programme comprises a theatrical experience in a route format, intricately connected to the main cloister of the Convent. Created specifically for this occasion, the piece offers a “frightening” narrative about the deceased and traditional Canarian witchcraft, focusing on souls that have yet to transition to the other side. It appreciates the prayers and customs associated with the Night of the Dead.
This theatrical and musical event will feature performances by Antonio Conejo, Mar Gutiérrez, and Alicia Rodríguez Reyes, along with Parranda El Abuelo, who will perform songs from the Canarian repertoire, coupled with the depiction of traditional ranchos de ánimas, representative of the Night of the Dead. The initiative also includes guidance on traditional attire from folklorist Dulce Rodríguez de la Rosa, a member of the Traditional Clothing Regulatory Council of the Cabildo of Tenerife.
Set in an unspecified period during the first half of the 20th century, where the majority of the populace remains linked to agrarian life in a modest town, the narrative unfolds a dramatic story imbued with superstition and a fear of the malevolent actions performed by the wicked witches of traditional Canarian folklore.
This initiative aims to honour the rich intangible heritage associated with the rituals and customs of our ancestors relating to the Night of the Dead, particularly focusing on the realm of traditional witchcraft through legends and tales rooted in the depth of the Canary Islands.
