Good contemporary theatre has to be cutting edge and Barcelona has no shortage of companies and venues that produce just that. Sala Beckett has been at the forefront of this for some time. I first went when it was based in Gracia, they bring plays from around the world and in particular recent work from the UK.
About a year ago, Sala Beckett was finally able to move into its new venue in Poblenou after rather lengthy renovation work. The building they now inhabit is an old neighbourhood athenaeum or cultural centre, which with a few contemporary flourishes has been restored to its former glory. Even if you decide not to catch a show there, I recommend having a look around.
Sala Beckett is both a theatre space and centre for workshops and masterclasses. The productions are performed in Catalan: I find there is nothing better for improving my command of this language than watching a Pinter play in translation.
If you feel that sitting through theatre in a foreign language is beyond your comfort zone, then you can just soak up the vibes and sit next to the theatre crowd at El Menjador bar and restaurant downstairs. It’s a charming space, emulating the modernista age cafes from times gone by. The food is good quality, although the portions tend a bit on the small side, so just order a drink and some tapas and surrender yourself to discussing the latest trends in the dramatic arts.
