Delgado, Maria M. (2026) Introduction: Performance, Justice and Law: The Baltasar Garzón and La Manada (the wolf pack) trials on stage. In: Spanish Verbatim Theatre: Putting Justice on Trial. Centre for Performance Research, Aberystwyth, pp. 1-33.

Abstract

Maria M. Delgado’s chapter explores the intersection of theatricality and the judicial system by analyzing two high-profile Spanish legal events staged for the public: the trial of judge Baltasar Garzón and the "La Manada" (The Wolf Pack) sexual assault case.

Delgado argues that the courtroom functions as a site of performance where justice is not just administered but "enacted." She examines how documentary theatre—specifically plays like Port Arthur and Jauría—reclaims these legal narratives. By placing real trial transcripts on stage, these productions expose the systemic biases and power dynamics inherent in the law, transforming the audience into a "jury" and challenging the official performance of justice.