Guarania Purahéi Asy, the latest experimental dance-theatre production written and directed by Fidel Rojas, delves into Paraguay’s first original music genre: the Guarania. Through music, movement, voice, and silence, the play traces the origins of a century-old sound that emerged 50 years after the bloodiest war South America had ever seen. It captures the soul of a wounded nation and the deep sorrow of those left behind.
La Guarania: The Sound Of The Paraguayan Heart
Born in the 1920s, the Guarania arose during Paraguay’s long recovery from the devastating War of the Triple Alliance. At the time, the Paraguayan polka – an energetic rhythm influenced by European polka – was the dominant sound. Yet, for José Asunción Flores, a young musician in the Band of the National Police, this vibrant music failed to reflect the spirit of his people.
The Paraguayan soul, he believed, was tough yet tender, reserved yet welcoming, but above all, marked by sorrow. Drawing inspiration from Holy Week rituals and the quiet melancholy of daily life, Flores crafted a new rhythm – one that echoed the deep emotions of his homeland. Thus, he became the father of the Guarania.
This year, the government of Paraguay declared 2025 as “National Year of Guarania“.
An Immersive Experience Through Music, Dance, And Theatre
Guarania Purahéi Asy – Songs of Sorrow in Guaraní – transforms these sentiments into a breathtaking stage production. By blending live performance with the most iconic Guarania songs, the play narrates the genre’s creation, evolution, and legacy. More than a performance, it is a question: How can music embody the sorrow and resilience of an entire people?
A One-Of-A-Kind Experience
For those who cherish culture, history, and reflection, Guarania Purahéi Asy promises an evening of profound beauty through music, dance, and theatre. Audiences will have only two opportunities to witness this remarkable production:
When: May 10 (Saturday) and 11 (Sunday), 8:30 PM Each
Where: Teatro de las Américas (C.C.P.A, José Berges 297)
Tickets: Gs. 50,000 in advance | Gs. 70,000 at the door
For advance tickets and more information, you can contact the organization here.
