The late Brazilian playwright Zé Celso Martinez Corrêa, who passed away at the age of 86 on Thursday (6), had a history filled with controversy in his hometown of Araraquara, São Paulo, during the 1990s. One of the most notable incidents involved his play ‘Mistérios Gozosos’ (Joyful Mysteries) in 1995, which faced accusations of desecrating Catholic religious objects by a local priest.
‘Mistérios Gozosos’ dared to explore the themes of sex and Catholicism, which triggered a strong reaction from the conservative sectors of society. The play’s explicit content and provocative portrayal of religious figures stirred up a heated debate within the community. A priest took legal action against the production, alleging profanity and disrespect towards sacred symbols. The controversy surrounding the play attracted significant media attention and fueled public outcry.
Two years later, another one of Zé Celso’s productions caused a commotion in Araraquara. The play titled ‘Bacantes’ (Bacchae), based on Euripides’ ancient Greek tragedy, faced opposition from various conservative groups. Concerned about the potential controversy and public uproar, the local government initially banned the performance. However, after intense discussions and pressure from supporters of artistic freedom, the ban was eventually lifted, allowing the play to be staged.
Zé Celso’s theatrical work was known for pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. He believed in the power of art to provoke thought and stimulate conversations about taboo subjects. His approach often collided with traditional values and religious beliefs, making him a polarizing figure in the eyes of some.
Born and raised in Araraquara, Zé Celso developed a strong connection to the city throughout his life. Despite the controversies that surrounded his plays, he remained dedicated to his craft and continued to create thought-provoking works that divided opinions. His contributions to Brazilian theater were recognized both nationally and internationally, earning him a prominent place in the country’s cultural landscape.
Zé Celso’s passing marks the end of an era in Brazilian theater. His provocative and boundary-pushing productions challenged societal conventions and left a lasting impact on the artistic community. While his works may have been met with controversy and opposition, they undeniably played a significant role in shaping the cultural discourse of their time.
As Araraquara mourns the loss of one of its most controversial and influential sons, Zé Celso Martinez Corrêa’s legacy will continue to ignite discussions about the boundaries of art, freedom of expression, and the role of theater in society.
