GREC - Barcelona 2009

Barcelona is one of Europe's most cultural cities and the Grec Festival adds to this reputation. Since 1976, the music, theatre and dance performing festival has taken place every summer. It has inspired, and not to mention entertained thousands of visitors.  Grec is a festival occurring in Barcelona from the end of June to August 2nd. By Montjuic, close to the Olympic Stadium you will find an ancient Greek-inspired amphitheater which is also known as the Teatre Grec. The festival which is commonly known as The Grec includes music, theatre and dance performances and has been visited by artists such as Craig David and Joss Stone in the previous years. This year over 60 performances are set up to be enjoyed by all different tastes for music and dance.  As the festival used to take place at the Grec Theatre, it has now expanded to different parts of the city such as the CCCB, Teatre Lliure, Mercat de les Flors, Teatrea Ovidi Monitor as well as outdoor activities in Plaza del Rey and Grec Gardens, all in all, 26 different venues!  It looks like the financial crisis is affecting most of our surroundings, including the entertainment business. Due to the high unemployment rate in Spain as well as the crisis changing our spending habits the festival has adjusted the prices this year. This means that all people over 65 years old as well as the unemployed receive a 25 per cent discount as well as people who carry library cards experience a 20 per cent discount. Other than that the prices are pretty affordable ranging around 8-10 euros entrance fees.  When studying and living in an international environment it is important to experience the different cultural aspects of Barcelona and take advantage of this. Getting involved in the local activities, reading local newspapers and staying up to date is rewarding.  Enjoy the sizzling weather, slap on some sunscreen and enjoy a classical play, Catalan or International show, new and upbeat digital art or a family-orientated circus show. There is something for everybody and definitely worth checking out the city.  Tickets can be bought online at www.bcn.cat/grec or www.telentrada.com. You can also go to Caixa Catalunya Offices or one of these three libraries located in various areas of Barcelona: Jaume Fuster Library, Sagrada Família Library or Vapor Vell Library.