The Argentine theater community is mourning the loss of its iconic playwright, Roberto "Tito" Cossa, who passed away at the age of 89 in Buenos Aires. Known for his transformative and committed works, Cossa was part of the new realism theatrical movement that emerged in the seventies. His classics such as "La Nona", "Yepeto", and "Gris de Ausencia" have left an indelible mark on the fabric of Argentine culture. On the very day he passed, the Cervantes National Theater was set to premiere a work adapted by him, highlighting his enduring influence on the theatrical world.
Born on November 30, 1934, into a middle-class family in Buenos Aires, Cossa's journey into theater was initially hindered by shyness, preventing him from pursuing acting beyond classes. Later, he transitioned into journalism, contributing to several prominent media outlets, including Clarín, El Cronista Comercial, and La Opinión. However, Cossa's passion for theater was never far behind; he melded his journalistic talents with his theatrical aspirations, allowing his written words to flourish on stage.
Cossa's breakthrough came during Argentina's military dictatorship with the success of "La Nona" in 1977. This character, born from a television request, became a phenomenon on the stage—a woman with an insatiable appetite forcing her family into increasingly absurd and desperate measures to satisfy her hunger. This period also saw Cossa's involvement in Teatro Abierto, a cultural movement that confronted the military regime with works addressing painful social realities. His play, "Gris de Ausencia", depicted the struggles of an Italian immigrant family considering a return to Europe due to economic hardships in Argentina, striking a resonant chord with audiences.
Cossa's contribution to theater extended beyond writing; he was a fervent advocate for authors' rights and served as the president of the General Society of Argentine Authors (Argentores). His career spanned both the stage and the screen, with film adaptations of his plays like "La Nona" and "Yepeto", as well as his script for the adaptation of Osvaldo Soriano's novel "No Habrá Más Penas ni Olvido". His legacy was celebrated with numerous awards, including the National Theater Award of Argentina and the Ibero-American Max Award.
Through plays like "Tute Cabrero", "Nuestro Fin de Semana", and "El Viejo Criado", Cossa explored themes of human resilience, the intersection of the personal and political, and the search for identity. His works conveyed a deep understanding of the human condition and societal issues, resonating with audiences in Argentina and beyond. Cossa's influence is evident in the enduring popularity of his works on Buenos Aires stages, and his impact on Argentine culture remains profound as a new generation continues to draw inspiration from his legacy.
- Some of Cossa's notable works include "Tute Cabrero", which deals with the trials of three friends forced to decide who among them will lose their job due to a company 'rationalization plan'. In "El Viejo Criado", set in a Buenos Aires bar in the 1930s, he intertwines social and political commentary with personal narratives, featuring characters that mirror Argentina's rich history and cultural evolution.
- In "Yepeto", Cossa explores the dynamic between youth and age, wisdom, and beauty through the story of a middle-aged writer and a young athlete who both love the same woman. This play highlights intellectual versus physical prowess and the intimate, often conflicting, desires of individuals.
- Cossa contributed significantly to Argentine cinema as well. His adaptations such as "La Nona" and "Yepeto" brought his compelling narratives to a broader audience. These films, like his plays, delve into Argentine life, capturing the essence of the nation's spirit and struggles.
- His dedication to human rights and legacy in Argentine theater is also marked by his activism and support for cultural movements that opposed oppressive regimes, giving a voice to those marginalized by society.
- Cossa's work in the Memory Commission alongside Nobel Peace Prize winner Adolfo Pérez Esquivel reflected his commitment to preserving historical truth and advocating for justice.
