Composer

:

Catalonian Anonymous

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

81:15

El Misteri d'Elx, also known as the Mystery Play of Elche, is a medieval religious drama that has been performed annually in the Spanish town of Elche since the mid-15th century. The play is a unique example of the medieval liturgical drama and is considered one of the most important cultural events in Spain. The play was composed by an anonymous author from Catalonia in the 15th century. It is believed to have been written between 1460 and 1480, although the exact date is unknown. The play was originally performed in the Church of Santa Maria in Elche, but it was later moved to the Basilica of Saint Mary, where it is still performed today. El Misteri d'Elx is divided into two parts: the first part, called the "Misteri," tells the story of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, while the second part, called the "Festa," celebrates the coronation of the Virgin Mary as Queen of Heaven. The play is performed in two acts, with a break in between. The play is performed by amateur actors, who are all residents of Elche. The actors are divided into two groups: the "angels," who sing and dance, and the "apostles," who act out the story. The play is accompanied by music, which is performed by a choir and a small orchestra. One of the most distinctive features of El Misteri d'Elx is the use of the "misteri" or "mystery" play format. This format was popular in medieval Europe and involved the dramatization of religious stories. The play is also notable for its use of the Catalan language, which was the language of the region at the time the play was written. El Misteri d'Elx was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2001. The play is considered an important part of Spanish cultural heritage and is a symbol of the town of Elche. The play is performed every year on August 14th and 15th, and it attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.

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