The ninth edition of ARTenBITRIR returns to Petrer’s Old Quarter, filling its streets with color, spectacle, and live art. This three-day gathering, held from April 1 to 3, invites visitors to experience the historic center reawakening after a two-year pause when the event could only run in a reduced form.
During the weekend, those who come to Petrer to witness ARTenBITRIR will find more than 50 performances from around 20 companies from Spain, France, and Mexico. The program spans clowning, theatre, puppetry, circus acts, and music, offering entertainment for audiences of all ages and tastes.
The theme for this issue is RESPECT!, a slogan designed to celebrate basic human values such as regard for others and for oneself. The message also underscores respect for nature, for workers, and for street art itself, which remains a vital part of the city’s cultural life.
ARTenBITRIR 2021 showcased the mass appeal of the city, and this year’s festival continues that tradition with bold performances across a variety of street venues and theaters.
Everything you will find in ARTenBITRIR
Attendees will be treated to a diverse lineup, featuring the Mike Tiger circus show, the French spectacle Le CollectiHiHiHif, the lively joke company, and Colectivo Tingladu, among many other acts designed for all kinds of spectators. In addition, security measures have been implemented in several parts of the city to ensure smooth, safe enjoyment. Some performances are tightly programmed in specific spaces and may be outside the main schedule.
As nightfalls, the esplanade comes alive with open-air concerts starting at 11 p.m. on Saturday. Audiences can expect sets from DJ R de Rumba and the Pura Mandanga crew, with additional performances from groups from the Alicante region on Friday night, including Lo Que Surja, No More, and Cooldesac.
When the party reaches its peak, the Visitors theatre group will take the stage with its comedy Flying Sunday at 9 p.m., performed at Espai Metallube in the Esplanade parking lot.
In the visual arts segment, ARTenBITRIR highlights three urban painting modalities that share a common aim yet differ in approach: mural, graffiti, and urban art. About twenty artists will contribute across five dedicated spaces in Petrer’s urban core, inviting visitors to view and even contribute to the evolving cover. Through these interventions, ARTenBITRIR seeks to position Petrer’s walls as a focal point of the regional street art movement in Alicante.
Expobitrir, a craft fair, is also a mandatory stop, hosting more than 30 booths where artists and craftspeople display, sell, and demonstrate their creations. This year, several regional non-profit organizations will participate to support solidarity work.
ARTenBITRIR aims to bring wonder and emotion closer together through art, allowing audiences to experience the connection between creators and viewers firsthand. It is worth noting that all performances are free to attend, with participants welcome to contribute voluntarily up to a suggested cap.
Full activity program
The complete ARTenBITRIR 2022 activity program is available via the official link provided by organizers.
Don’t miss out, there are only three days—mark your calendar for the weekend of April 1 through 3.