A Night of Stars at Buenos Aires' Historic Teatro Liceo
On August 11, 2026, the historic Teatro Liceo in Buenos Aires opened its doors not for a traditional play, but to celebrate half a century of passion for the stage. For international context, the Teatro Liceo is one of the oldest theaters in Argentina, and Corrientes Street (where it is located) is the local equivalent of New York's Broadway. The protagonist of the evening was theatrical producer and businessman Carlos Rottemberg, Argentina's most prominent theater producer, who presented his new book: Pasen y lean. 50 años de teatrista y algo más (Come in and read. 50 years of a theater maker and more), published by Editorial Losada.
An Emotional Speech from the Balcony: Mirtha Legrand's Words
The great guest of the night was Mirtha Legrand, a legendary Argentine television host and actress affectionately known as 'La Chiqui'. She arrived shortly before 6:30 PM accompanied by her friend Héctor Vidal Rivas. From one of the theater's balconies, the host dedicated an emotional message to her lifelong friend, remembering the invaluable support Rottemberg gave her after the passing of her husband, renowned filmmaker Daniel Tinayre.
I carry him in the bottom of my heart, because he was the man who stood by my side when I lost my partner. He was always by my side. I will never forget you. I will be grateful until the end of my days.
The diva also remembered their Saturday outings and the close relationship the producer had with Tinayre, with whom he used to talk on the phone for hours.
A Book Revealing the Backstage of 'Industrial Theater'
The literary work is not a complacent autobiography. Rottemberg explained that it is a personal and informal look from within the profession. The book addresses conflicts, industry problems, and the less glamorous side of the commercial circuit of Corrientes Street, a concept the author defines as industrial theater.
Impressive Career Data
- 50 years of uninterrupted career.
- More than 1,018 plays produced.
- More than 20 million tickets sold.
- 70% of productions usually end up being commercial failures, a reality the author does not shy away from.
Luis Brandoni's Legacy on the First Pages
One of the most moving moments of the work is the prologue written by the unforgettable actor Luis Brandoni (a giant of Argentine theater and film), who passed away on April 20, 2026. Brandoni read the text to Rottemberg over the phone on April 3, just days before his death. At the producer's request, the publisher reopened the edition to include an open farewell letter to his friend, turning the prologue into an emotional posthumous tribute.
Humor, Recognition, and Entertainment Figures
The presentation was moderated by journalists Any Ventura and Pablo Sirvén. The room was filled with famous faces from the Argentine entertainment industry, such as Graciela Borges (a legendary film actress), Adrián Suar (a top TV and film producer), Guillermo Francella (a beloved comedy actor), José María Listorti, and Sebastián Blutrach (president of AADET, the Argentine Association of Theater Producers). True to his style, Rottemberg drew applause and laughter by announcing: I'm going to give everyone a free book because it's cheaper than the canapés.
In addition, the night featured official recognition: the businessman received a distinction by unanimous vote from the National Senate of Argentina, presented by politicians Wado de Pedro and Maximiliano Abad. A gold brooch for a night dedicated to culture and friendship.
Sources: Infobae, La Nación, La Capital Mar del Plata, La Prensa.