Draft:Aurora Colina

Aurora Colina, (born on June 30, 1938, in Lima) is a Peruvian Actress and Cultural Manager, currently residing in the city of London.

Childhood and Family:

Ilda Aurora Colina Pareja was born in Lima and spent her childhood between the capital and the province of Calca in Cusco.

She is the daughter of Ilda Angélica de Colina and Leoncio Armando Colina Rabines, a Major in the Peruvian Army.

Early Theater Career:

In 1955, Aurora Colina embarked on her theatrical journey by joining the Theater of the University of San Marcos (TUSM) while studying Literature and Education at the same university. This theatrical breeding ground was crucial in the 1950s, and she remained part of it for three years.

In 1962, she embarked on a journey to England aboard the "Reina del Mar" accompanied by her colleague Sara Joffré. Throughout this journey, both artists actively immersed themselves in the English theatrical environment.

Founding of the "Homero, Teatro de Grillos" Group:

In 1964, upon her return, Aurora Colina and her theater companions, including Sara Joffré, Alejandro Elliot, Víctor Galindo, Jaime Castro, Alfredo Castro, Roberto Ríos, and Homero Rivera, founded "Homero, Teatro de Grillos." The name originated with the inclusion of the young actor Homero Rivera, who symbolically lent his name to the group. The choice of the term "Grillos" was based on the perception that the theater was like a pot full of crickets. Thus, the group committed to producing theatrical works for children.

"Casa Cultural El Cocolido":

From 1975 to 1992, Aurora Colina played the role of founder and director of the "Casa Cultural El Cocolido," currently located in Miraflores, where La Tarumba is now situated. This space emerged as the cradle of key figures in alternative theater in the 1980s, leaving a lasting impact on the Peruvian cultural scene. Among its notable productions are plays like "El homosexual," directed by José Enrique Mavila, and "El beso de la Mujer araña," adapted by Beto Montalvo and Pipo Ormeño (Teatro del Sol)[2] from the work of Manuel Puig. In 1992, the renowned clown group Pataclaun even presented their show in this space.[3]

In "El Cocolido," distinguished professionals such as Alberto Ísola and Fernando Zevallos, the founder of La Tarumba, as well as recognized musicians like Celso Garrido Lecca, began their careers. In 1976, the Cultural House welcomed the Argentine director Arístides Vargas, who, after being exiled due to the military coup in his country, settled in this space before founding Malayerba.

Acting Career:

Aurora Colina has gained international recognition with her solo performances "Mamacha Dolores" and "Los Sueños de América," works committed to society. "Mamacha Dolores" tackles the heartbreaking story of a mother amid the civil war searching for her kidnapped son, while "Los Sueños de América" explores Latin American immigration to supposedly more prosperous countries, with stories of hope and challenges. Both pieces reflect Colina's sensitivity and commitment in her artistic career.

Career Path and Collaborations:

Under the direction of prominent professionals such as Alberto Isola, Sara Joffré, and Diego La Hoz, Aurora Colina has showcased her talent on international stages. She participated in EspacioLibre productions, including "Mientras Canta el Verano" and "Los Funerales de Doña Arcadia," based on "Lima La Horrible" by Sebastián Salazar Bondy. Her artistic versatility has been guided by directors like Reynaldo D’Amore, Pedro Jarque, Humberto Napurí, Alonso Alegría, Edgard Guillén, and others, establishing an impressive theatrical career.

Contributions to Film and TV:

Aurora Colina expanded her artistic journey by venturing into television with the series "Os Filhos do Sol" for Rede Manchete Brazilian television and "Peter Voss, Thief of Millions (TV series) for German TV. Throughout her cinematic career, she participated in notable films such as "El seminarista de los ojos verdes" (1962), "La familia Orozco" (1982), and "Una raya más al tigre" (1981). Although she has left her mark on the big screen, her primary focus has been on theater.

Legacy and Recognitions:

Her legacy in Peruvian theater lives on through her work and contributions to the cultural scene.

Her influence has been acknowledged both nationally and internationally.