Alex had a Dream
In a recent interview here in Palma, I mentioned that you can find actors, fine artists, designers, writers, and musicians who are at the top of their game, comparable to any other country in the world. I’d like to introduce you to a Mallorcan artist with numerous talents. Here in Palma, Alex Tejedor is well-known and respected for his work. We met in 2021, when we were both exhibiting a film at a nearby film fest. My film was a short film, The Lying Truth, which I wrote and starred in, it was directed by the filmmaker Aegina de Vas.
Alex Tejedor is a filmmaker, writer, actor, singer, illustrator, and many more. After the screening of his film Sergi & Irina, we spoke. In July 2019, his film was shot between Alfabia Gardens and Raixa in Bunyola.
Lets talk Film What was your first important piece of work or your first break?
“It was an Off-Broadway show which I was very in love with called “The Fantasticks,” I managed to put a play together with a semiprofessional group, where I played the lead role of Matt.”
Where does your true passion, lie?
“I think the creative side, as l have the ability to imagine, dream, direct, write stories and compose music. Also, secretly they are my four main love affairs: Film, Theatre, illustration and Music.”
Don’t worry, it’s our secret...
What was it like playing the lead in in 2015?
Grease
“A wonderful experience with a wonderful cast where I was the teenager Angel, it was a smash hit, it was really successful.”
What gave you the idea for Sergi & Irina?
“The idea was born from a piece of micro-theater that I was commissioned to do by theatre producer Joan Porcel, which I wrote, composed, directed and starred in alongside actress Alexandra Palomo, and with the pianist Miquel Brunet. It was filmed at Alfabia Gardens in May and June 2012. It was a little Romantic Musical inspired by the a 40s and 50s Musical, called “Sergi & Irina”.”
Where do you see this film going?
“It could go everywhere, as it is a story that many will relate to. We are looking for investors who will finance the Long Feature Musical Film version of “Sergi & Irina” that I have renamed as “El Mundo Era Nuestro” (The World Was Ours”) and this year we’re going to get some investment to start the pre-production of the Music, the musical arrangements, the score, the voices and the demos with the help from the amazing musician, composer and orchestra director, Toni Cuenca.”
How would you classify this film?
“My dream is to make the first Big Production of a Musical Feature Film in Spain, and I would classify this film as Melodramatic Musical Film, set at the beginning of World War II, it is an Epic Love Story overshadowed by war.”
Who are the actors?
“The actors are wonderful and amazing Teresa Ferrer and Adrián Salzedo, they both have worked a lot, in Musicals.”
What’s your opinion regarding theatre in Palma, being multi-plural?
“There are many residents that should be able to see productions in English-French-German and the market is very narrow, and more so in these last few years.”
As an actress I think the options are usually the private theatres, which have a broader spectrum, musicals, etc... but they are very expensive and the smaller companies walk away in debt!
“Yes, that’s the downside of the reality here in Mallorca.
I believe you can have your cake and eat it...”
My Thoughts
After seeing the trailer again, it brought back how much I enjoyed this film, it really does stay with you. It was a Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers revival, laced with a dramatic reality that hit hard and broke not only dreams but wipedout families and a way of life. The effect of a war, and collateral damage is a living reality for many today, and yes, those that suffer haven’t provoked the misery that they are faced with.
The dancing and singers were absolutely to die for, and the chemistry between actors Teresa Ferrer & Adrián Salzedo sent wicked shivers down my spine. The music was crucial in this film, and it was certainly well performed and fitting in every way. Hardly surprising as the Mallorcan Musician Toni Cuenca, who is an absolute maestro, was in
volved. The costumes were beautifully crafted and were glamorous but not overly extravagant, just enough to bring a hint of subtle glamour.
The scenes of dancing around
the cascading fountains laden with vibrant bougainvilleas, and white Lillie’s was spectacular! A film that has gained 41 awards, both national & international, in 58 festivals
around the world. Travelling to New York, Los Angeles, Australia and London. A film with depth, and many layers that will grip your heart.Dreams, broken by war...