Fundación Gerocultura has premiered 'La Isla de los Viejos' to acclaim, the second work in its Trilogy of Aging, delving into the solitude and social exclusion experienced by older adults. Featuring a cast over 60, the play weaves fiction with personal realities to tell their stories. Directed by Carlos Aedo, it underscores the value of artistic spaces empowering seniors.
As part of its Trilogy of Aging, Fundación Gerocultura has launched 'La Isla de los Viejos,' a production that tackles the concerns and aspirations of older adults through a collaborative creative process. Directed by Carlos Aedo, also the foundation's executive director, the play examines social isolation by depicting how many seniors are relegated to unsuitable, autonomy-lacking spaces. "Deepen into the phenomenon of social isolation, showing how many older people are relegated to determined, improper spaces lacking autonomy," Aedo stated.
The cast comprises five performers over 60: Corina Posada, Julio Ramírez, Pelusa Troncoso, Óscar Zimmermann, and Lorena Prada. Their emotions and desires drive the narrative, with dialogues and monologues drawn from intimate fragments of their lives. The plot strands these characters on an island after a dystopian event, forcing them to organize, recount pasts, and envision futures. Cameras, projections, and personal archives enhance the staging, symbolizing exclusion beyond the social realm.
Established eight years ago, Gerocultura aims to highlight the realities of older people amid rising dehumanization. Through artistic initiatives, it promotes intergenerational bonds and bolsters independence. Aedo critiqued overprotective care: "There is an excess of care toward this age group. They are told not to leave home because they might get sick or fall, and thus we limit them." Drama workshops provide holistic growth, viewing participants as change agents.
The play ran six sold-out performances at Galería del CA660, affirming the timeliness of these themes and the vibrancy of its protagonists.