Álvaro Morte, the acclaimed Spanish actor known for his role in the global Netflix hit "Money Heist," has traded the high-stakes drama of television for the intimate setting of London's West End. In his latest venture, Morte stars opposite Lily Collins in the play "Barcelona," exploring a complex character and the nuances of live theater performance.

Captivating Audiences with Layered Performances

Embracing the Theatrical Vibe

During a break from the production, Morte reflects on his return to the stage after a decade dominated by screen work. He expresses his love for the "vibe" of the theater, the diverse audience, and the vibrant energy of London's West End. The intimate setting of the Duke of York's Theatre, seating around 640 people, has proven ideal for the production, allowing Morte to feel "embraced by the audience" and forge a deep connection with the spectators.

Exploring Nuanced Characters

The play "Barcelona" provides Morte with a complex character that allows him to explore multiple layers. He describes the character as "performing two things at the same time," offering the actor the opportunity to continuously discover new depths. This complexity and the ability to delve into the character's intricacies have been a source of fascination for Morte, who thrives on the challenge of bringing such a multifaceted role to life.

Connecting with Audiences Across Borders

Morte's theatrical experience has already yielded memorable moments, such as meeting a fan who had traveled from Japan to see the show. This connection with the audience, both local and international, is a driving force for the actor, who is determined to make the experience worthwhile for every spectator. Morte's commitment to pleasing the audience and creating a shared, immersive experience is a testament to his passion for the craft of live performance.

Collaborating with Lily Collins

Working with Lily Collins, the lead of the popular Netflix series "Emily in Paris," has been a highlight of Morte's experience. Before accepting the role, the actor arranged a Zoom call with Collins to ensure they had the necessary chemistry for the demanding two-person play. Morte describes their collaboration as a "wonderful experience," praising Collins' professionalism, talent, and personal qualities, which have contributed to the success of their on-stage partnership.

Transitioning from Screen to Stage

Morte's theatrical roots run deep in Spain, where he began his career working alongside renowned actors and directors. The transition back to stage work has required him to adjust his performance style, as the language and demands of live theater differ significantly from the nuanced approach required for screen work. Morte explains that he has had to find ways to convey the same emotional depth and subtlety on stage, reaching the last row of the theater while maintaining the intimacy of the performance.

Embracing the Creative Process

Morte credits the director, Lynette Linton, for creating a "very safe and comfortable place to work and to develop your creativity as an actor." Additionally, the presence of playwright Bess Wohl during rehearsals has helped optimize the text and ensure the play is "understood and enjoyable for the audience." This collaborative environment has allowed Morte to fully immerse himself in the creative process and deliver a performance that resonates with the West End audience.

Expanding Horizons Beyond "Money Heist"

Since his breakout role in the global Netflix hit "Money Heist," Morte's career has expanded internationally, opening up new opportunities for collaboration with acclaimed directors and actors. One such dream collaboration is his upcoming film "Ocho" with Spanish director Julio Medem, whom Morte admired since his days as a drama student. Additionally, Morte has taken on the challenge of delivering dialogue in English, Spanish, and Arabic for the upcoming spy film "Raqa," further showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Connecting with West End Audiences

As Morte continues his run in "Barcelona," his focus remains firmly on connecting with the West End audience and providing them with an unforgettable theatrical experience. He expresses his desire to make the audience "forget everything about the rest of their lives and just enjoy the play here, all of us here together." This commitment to creating a shared, immersive experience is a testament to Morte's passion for the art of live performance and his unwavering dedication to his craft.