Throughout this year residents of São Brás will be celebrating an important landmark in their town’s history. Exactly 100 years ago it became an independent council. A new play, ‘Rags to Riches’, recounts some of the significant people and events that led to this change of status.
Once a rural hamlet, by the end of the 19th century the area had become an urban settlement with many businesses connected to the cork industry. Without an official name, it was a no-man’s land situated between Faro and Alportel. In 1914 – due to the persistent efforts of a group of local residents – it became recognised as a separate municipality to be named Concelho de São Brás de Alportel.
In the years before this happened, the business ventures of Miguel Dias – a humble peasant-cum-entrepreneur – helped transform the hamlet into a town. The founder of one of the first and most successful businesses, he attracted people from across the region looking for employment. With a team of mules, donkeys and carts, his large workforce transported cork from the Alentejo to processing factories in places as far afield as Silves.
Bringing prosperity to the area, his business made him a well-known figure and a personal fortune. He was a colourful character who charmed the ladies and led a luxurious lifestyle. The mansion that he built is now São Brás Museum.
‘Rags to Riches’ tells the story of Miguel’s remarkable life and of his unexpected death.
Written in rhyming verse by Carolyn Kain, simultaneously a parallel shorter version is told in Portuguese. Brought to life by the Aperitivo Performance Group, like many of their unusual productions it is progressive theatre presented in two languages with a chorus of workers, musical interludes and a cast of 13 directed by Gertrud Durnholz.
As explained by Emanuel Sancho, Director of São Brás Museum, “The play is one of many events planned over the course of the year. We have organised exhibitions, lectures and demonstrations to honour the memory of past citizens. Various meetings will reflect upon the past, look towards the future and our collective identity as a multinational town.”
(numa Caixinha)
‘Rags to Riches’
Where: São Brás Museum
When: September 19 and 20 at 7.30pm
Tickets: €15 includes 3 course dinner (€5 play/lasts 35 minutes. €10 meal). Tickets on sale from September 1.
966 329 073 | [email protected] | www.aperitivoperformancegroup.net
By Frances Ruddick
