On October 8th and 9th, the province is hosting the "Cien Silvestre" (One Hundred Silvestre) event to honor Alfonso Silvestre Sierra, one of the most prominent actors born in Las Tunas, on the centenary of his birth.

Las Tunas, Cuba.- The event began with actress Elizabeth Borrero performing a segment from the play Como anillo al dedo (specifically, lines belonging to the character Argentina) in front of the home of this master of the stage.

"I remember him fondly, the director he was, his discipline, his vast knowledge, and his genuine desire to share his wisdom with others. It was magical to draw inspiration from such a deep well of experience," says Elizabeth. Back in the 1990s, as a very young actress, she played the role of Clarita in that same production —one of the final plays Alfonso directed in Las Tunas.

She recalls how the budding actors of that time would "flock" around Silvestre, eager to absorb as much of his wisdom as possible. "We would sit in his courtyard —that was our regular meeting place for sharing knowledge. He would bring out his suitcases, filled with mementos he cherished like a great treasure. There were stories from his time with Pro-Arte, experiences from his work in television... So much!

He was, without a doubt, instrumental in shaping who we are today: people still driven by a desire to create. From him, I inherited a love and passion for acting, the importance of a meticulous study of one’s characters, the drive to always dig deeper into a play, and a profound respect for the audience —the very people for whom we perform," Borrero added.

The legacy of "that great father figure" —as Elizabeth called him— is also honored at the Provincial Center for Cultural Heritage, which hosts an exhibition dedicated to the life and work of one of the founders of the “Patronato Pro-Arte,” the most significant grassroots cultural movement in the history of Las Tunas. The exhibition, which will remain on display for several days, features photographs from various theatrical productions in which he was involved, the pipe he used, and programs for plays staged at the Rivera Theater (now known as the "Tunas”).

The commemorative program also extended to the Casa del Joven Creador (House of the Young Creator), coinciding with the celebrations for the 40th anniversary of the Hermanos Saíz Association (AHS). There, performing arts specialist Alberto Carlos Estrada Segura spoke with a deep sense of connection to this artistic expression, recalling how "this venue —formerly known as the 'Sociedad Liceo'— served as a social hub for members who paid dues to participate in its activities, in which Alfonso Silvestre himself frequently took part."

Additionally, the prominent actresses Clotilde Aguillón and Argentina Vázquez shared their talent for Las Tunas’ young avant-garde artists. Aguillón presented her own adaptation of (The Rabbit's Ears), under the title La fábula de la abuela (The Grandmother's Fable), while Vázquez delighted the audience with Los cinco buenos amigos (The Five Good Friends).

The "Cien Silvestre" Event’s program also includes audiovisual presentations, discussions on the actor's work, and various other initiatives. Alfonso Silvestre was a consummate performer, mastering the realms of theater, radio, television, and film. This tribute is more than necessary.