The XIV Classical Theatre Festival of La Alcudia-UA, organised by the University of Alicante, has concluded with an excellent attendance record: all scheduled activities, from theatrical performances to guided tours, were 'sold out'.
The XIV Classical Theatre Festival of La Alcudia, held from 1 to 10 July at the archaeological site of Elche, has closed its 2026 edition with a resounding figure: full attendance at all activities. This has been confirmed by the University of Alicante (UA), the event's organiser, which highlights the consolidation of this cultural event as a summer reference in the province.
The seven scheduled plays, guided tours of the site, and parallel activities, such as presentations of the 'Casa de Comèdies' collection, recorded massive attendance. Only one of the performances left a few seats unsold, but the overall balance was one of complete sell-out.
A festival that integrates theatre, heritage, and research
The festival combined archaeological heritage, performing arts, and scientific dissemination over ten days. The thematic visits, organised by the University Institute of Research in Archaeology and Historical Heritage (INAPH), allowed attendees to learn about the latest discoveries at the La Alcudia site, a key location for the study of Iberian and Roman culture in the Valencian Community.
The theatrical programme offered contemporary versions of great classical texts, attracting both local audiences and visitors from other provinces. The UA's Vice-Rector for Culture, Sport, and University Extension, Catalina Iliescu, emphasised that “the success of the festival is not limited to the performing arts. The guided tours, literary presentations, and other parallel activities also recorded full participation.”
“That all activities have reached full capacity is the best indication that the university is offering cultural proposals that connect with society,” added Iliescu.
A commitment to university culture that connects with society
For the University of Alicante, this festival is one of the cornerstones of its cultural extension programme. The vice-rector stressed that “the magnificent reception of the festival confirms that we are on the right track” and that the outcome encourages “us to continue growing and improving each proposal.”
The festival has become a meeting space between artistic creation, scientific knowledge, and heritage, with an offer that integrates theatre, guided tours, and academic publications. The 'Casa de Comèdies' collection, from the UA's Publications Service, also recorded full attendance at its presentations, demonstrating the interest in disseminating archaeological research.
For the residents of Elche and the Baix Vinalopó region, the festival offers a unique opportunity to enjoy quality theatre in a historic setting, without the need to travel to major cities. Furthermore, the guided tours allow visitors to learn about a site that continues to be the subject of excavations and studies by the UA.
The 2026 edition has set a high bar for the next one. With full attendance at nearly all activities, the organisation is already working on the 2027 programme, which is expected to expand days and shows to meet public demand. For now, attendees take away the memory of a festival that has once again demonstrated that classical theatre and archaeology can be an irresistible cocktail on summer nights.
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