Copla: a Spanish Cabaret – HisPanic Breakdown / The Other Palace, London

I get familiar with a new genre of music and plenty of Spanish history at the surprisingly intimate yet educational Copla: A Spanish Cabaret.

Copla: A Spanish Cabaret

If you’re looking for a show that’s a little different, look no further than Copla: A Spanish Cabaret at The Other Palace. It offers an experience that’s part performance, part personal journey, and entirely captivating. This production, which is something like a TED Talk, a confessional, and a cabaret all in one, gives audiences a glimpse into the world of copla, a form of Spanish song that’s as emotional and dramatic as it is rich in cultural history.

Copla: A Spanish Cabaret is the creation of Alejandro Postigo. Postigo is a performer and academic who has poured his passion for the genre into this immersive, interactive experience. Through the show, Postigo introduces UK (and globalised, because it’s London) audiences to the emotional power of copla music, switching between Spanish-language performances and English translations. It’s a clever and accessible way to connect audiences to a style of music they may not be familiar with. The translations allow the poignant lyrics to resonate, even if you don’t speak Spanish. And the heartfelt delivery brings the emotions of the songs to life.

One of the most compelling aspects of the show is Postigo himself. As both the performer and the storyteller, he blends deeply personal anecdotes (including interviews with his ‘fairy godmother’ mentor and his centenarian grandmother) with a contagious enthusiasm for the genre. His love for copla — particularly its divas and the powerful emotions they evoke — is palpable. You can tell he has a deep-seated affection for the artists who have shaped the genre and the songs that have touched his life as a queer youth who felt like an outsider growing up in post-Fascist Spain. This authenticity shines through, making his insights into the music and its cultural significance all the more powerful. It’s clear that Postigo is putting his PhD to good use. This show isn’t just a performance, it’s a rich exploration of a musical tradition.

Full of Music, Laughter, and Heart

The format of the show is also a unique element and a strength. It feels like a conversation, one that is part cabaret performance and part personal reflection. Postigo shares candid thoughts on the music and its impact on his life as well as inhabiting the characters of copla. The experience feels intimate and deeply personal. The show has gone through several iterations (as a musical and one man show), but this version, with rich use of archival footage and two musicians sharing the stage) feels like a perfect fit for both the subject matter and the venue. It’s clear that Postigo has honed the pacing and tone to create an experience that feels fresh, exciting, and meaningful. The balance between the lightheartedness of cabaret and the depth of personal connection is just right

If this sounds tempting, be sure to arrive early to take advantage of the cabaret-style seating — though be warned this could mean some audience participation. Postigo has a knack for pulling people into the performance, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere where everyone feels involved. I love a good singalong (and it works surprisingly well even if you’ve never heard the song before!). The intimate setting adds to the charm of the show, making it feel like a shared experience between performer and audience.

Whether you’re familiar with the genre or hearing it for the first time, this is a show that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the emotional power of copla and the deeper meanings behind the songs. It’s an unforgettable night out, full of music, laughter, and heart.

Salterton Arts Review’s rating: 4/5

Copla: a Spanish Cabaret on until 26 January 2025. More info and tickets here.