Copla: A Spanish Cabaret, was on for one night only at the Waterside Arts Centre in Sale on the 15th of May as part of Pride in Trafford 2026. In essence it was reimagining of the traditional Spanish musical form known as copla performed by Alejando Postigo, a gay Madrileño, and directed by Sergio Maggiolo. It was an amusing evening, camp at times, but with a few more serious moments.
Copla songs were extremely popular in Spain both during and after the Franco dictatorship. On the surface they were dramatic torch songs full of heartbreak, glamour, and melodrama but not quite as spectacular as flamenco. Alejandro told us that many songs were coded themes of forbidden love, outsider identity, and gay desire, and this was brought out in the show. During Franco’s time some of the songs were censored to tone down anything deemed a bit too racy by the authorities – a bit like the Lord Chamberlin wielding his blue pencil in the UK in former times.
As well as videos (with translations) of copla songs, there was some gentle audience participation, and we were treated to a guest appearance (by video) of his fantastic now 104-year-old grandmother.
Famous performers include Miguel de Molina and the song La Bien Pagá (the well-paid one) has since become an LGBTQ+ anthem (you can find it on Spotify). Alejandro performed very well, slipping in and out of various outfits with aplomb, and it was all over far too quickly.
He’s taking the show to Hong Kong and Sydney and for a taste of the evening click HERE.
Paul Schofield for Canal Street Online.
After the show we used our Canal Street card in the bar (and bought Alejandro a well-deserved pint).