The Corrida Picassiana, the total event

The Picassian goes beyond a typical bullfight. It’s a spectacle with the character of an event. A unique event. And it’s not just a figure of speech, because the promotion, dissemination, scenography, decoration, and staging make this celebration an icon of the city of Málaga and one of the most distinctive features of its cultural programming, not only of Holy Week, but of the entire year.

As its name suggests, the day, which begins long before the bullfight itself, revolves around that genius of the arts named Pablo Ruiz Picasso. The businessman José María Garzón, from the beginning of his management in La Malagueta, has notably boosted the promotion and dissemination of the Picassian, which also in 2024 celebrates 15 years of its establishment in the annual programming.

Three artistic aspects will mark the course of the event: Bullfighting, painting, and music. The first of them is honored by three exceptional protagonists (Cayetano, Emilio de Justo, and Pablo Aguado, with bulls from Vellosino). Painting is represented by Pedro Sandoval, a Venezuelan based in Madrid, of recognized worldwide prestige, while the soundtrack of such a singular function will be in charge of the Provincial Symphony Orchestra of Málaga.

Pedro Sandoval, an illustrious representative of abstract neo-expressionism, will decorate La Malagueta with 65 original works inspired by Pablo Picasso and created exclusively for this Picassian Bullfight. They will cover tables and burladeros and will bet on the whole a striking color. In addition, this extraordinary ornamentation will be accompanied by a floral decoration for each of the eight stands that make up the more than centenary Malaga arena.

As in previous editions, the bullfight will have the musical accompaniment of the Málaga Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Ángel López Carreño and the Choir of the Lyrical Academy of 16 voices directed by Luis María Pacetti. The musical repertoire ranges from traditional pasodobles to well-known musical pieces, even fused with symphonic flamenco.

José María Garzón himself, on a recent visit to the Picasso Museum Málaga, along with Cayetano, to promote the show, highlighted the commitment of his company “so that fans live a unique experience with an event where up to three artistic expressions will meet”. There are many bullfights throughout the season. Picassians only one. And it has a date: Saturday, March 30. You have been warned.