The celebrated Cuban comedian, Ulises Toirac, made a highly anticipated return to the stage after a five-year absence, captivating audiences with a performance at the cultural center "El Cabildo" that left attendees thoroughly impressed. This Sunday afternoon event not only met but exceeded expectations, reaffirming Toirac's relevance and necessity in today's Cuban cultural landscape.
In a candid social media post on Monday, Toirac shared his apprehension about performing live again after such a long break. "Standing in front of an audience for an hour after five years... it's intimidating," he admitted. The performance took place at 4:00 p.m. at 4th Street and 7th Avenue in Miramar, near the iron bridge. He encouraged fans to make reservations by calling 50813470, as he hopes to establish a regular Sunday slot at the venue.
More than just a performance, this reunion was a powerful statement of resistance, a declaration of principles, and an exercise in collective memory in an era marked by censorship. Although stage presence might seem like an enduring skill, Toirac warned that it's not as simple as riding a bike: "In a year, a bicycle doesn't change as much as the audience, the humor criteria, expectations... or the country itself."
In his reflections, the comedian critically assessed the dramatic events that have reshaped Cuba since his last public appearance. "None of the events that have pushed the country to its current limits had happened... not COVID, not the economic restructuring, not the mass migration, not Murillo, not Gil, not the national energy postgraduate, not the 11/J protests, not the university strike, nor the police beatings of Fernández Era... I'm in a different universe," he observed.
"Being a comedian is daring, it's challenging, it's inherently dissident [...] Humor is a desacralizer, a smiling sapper. It's someone who makes you laugh about things that might be uncomfortable. Because that's the job: to use laughter to strip society of its falsehoods," he added.
Toirac's live return was meticulously planned. He dedicated days to preparation, rehearsing alone and refining every detail so he could enjoy the performance as much as his audience. "It's been an incredible afternoon, one of the most delightful and entertaining of my career. Thank you, thank you, thank you... SOLD OUT!!!!!" he rejoiced in another post, sharing photos from the show, including one with pianist Frank Fernández.
In a video posted on Facebook the same Monday, Toirac appeared joyful and grateful for his return to the stage. Writer Jorge Fernández Era also commented on the event, describing it as a phenomenal experience and highlighting the presence of Toirac, Ulises Aquino (owner of the venue and director of Ópera de la Calle), and humorist and professor Pedro Lorenzo.
Ulises Toirac's Struggle Against Systematic Censorship
Toirac's absence from the stage was not due to a lack of artistic drive but rather a sustained campaign of censorship targeting his career in recent years, a consequence of his sharp criticisms of the government. Cuban cultural authorities have repeatedly blocked his performances, silencing him professionally and imposing economic and symbolic penalties for his critical stance.
In September 2023, Toirac publicly denounced that the Ministry of Culture demanded changes to the lineup of two shows, effectively excluding him. "When was I put on the list?" he questioned on social media, asserting his right to earn a living through his art. The response was immediate: colleagues, fans, and citizens expressed their support in the face of what they saw as a repressive arbitrary action.
Earlier that year, Toirac had spoken out against the elitism of events like the Festival del Cayo Santa María, criticizing their disconnect from the people's needs. He also condemned the scarcity of basic goods like fish and the violent repression during protests in Caimanera. In 2024, censorship persisted. In June, he reported the cancellation of a performance in Cienfuegos. "The power makes it clear that speaking freely is impossible," he lamented.
Weeks earlier, in May, a "temporary" cancellation of his performance at Club Biky in Havana occurred without public explanation. In April, he exposed another ban at Café Teatro Bertolt Brecht, where he was invited to a comedy gathering. As restrictions intensified, Toirac sought refuge in the digital realm and explored alternative ways to earn a living.
In August 2024, he requested financial support to sustain his independent program "El Rapidín Matutino," broadcast for free on his social media. Despite the obstacles, Toirac remains committed to humor as a tool for critique. His presence online and now his return to the stage demonstrate a resolute determination to keep making people laugh and think, in a Cuba where censorship remains a barrier but not an insurmountable one.
Insights into Ulises Toirac's Return and Challenges
What was significant about Ulises Toirac's return to the stage?
Ulises Toirac's return was significant as it marked his comeback after a five-year hiatus, demonstrating his enduring relevance and the need for his voice in contemporary Cuban culture. It was also a statement of resistance against censorship.
Why has Ulises Toirac faced censorship in Cuba?
Toirac has faced censorship due to his sharp critiques of the Cuban government. His performances have been repeatedly blocked by cultural authorities, impacting his career and economic stability.
How has Toirac adapted to the challenges posed by censorship?
Toirac has adapted by utilizing digital platforms to continue his work, such as his independent program "El Rapidín Matutino." He has also sought support to sustain his efforts despite the challenges.
What themes does Ulises Toirac address in his comedy?
Toirac's comedy often addresses themes of societal critique, challenging authority, and exposing falsehoods. His humor serves as a tool for questioning and reflection.