Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed his sorrow this Saturday over the death of actress Corina Mestre, whom he described as a "loyal friend, collaborator, teacher, and patriot."
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of my loyal friend, collaborator, TEACHER, AND PATRIOT. My heart goes out to her husband, son, and the people of Cuba, who have lost one of their most passionate defenders," the president shared in a post on X.
In recent years, the 69-year-old actress had been a staunch supporter of the Cuban regime.
Minister of Culture Alpidio Alonso Grau announced this Saturday that she had passed away in Havana due to unspecified causes. "What devastating news! Today, the great actress and educator Corina Mestre passed away in Havana. All of Cuba will mourn her. Cuban culture loses one of its greatest figures, and the Revolution loses a steadfast militant. Our eternal gratitude for your work and example, dear sister!" he wrote.
The Ministry of Culture also paid tribute to the artist and extended its condolences to her family and friends. "Sad news for Cuban culture: Corina Mestre, actress and educator with a long and distinguished artistic career and a beloved figure among the Cuban people, has passed away," the Ministry expressed on its Facebook page.
Mestre was born in Havana and studied Performing Arts at the Higher Institute of Art, graduating in 1981. She began her career with the renowned Teatro Estudio Group, under the direction of Raquel Revuelta.
During her time with this group, she participated in over 70 productions, including works such as Macbeth, Blood Wedding, The Fair of the Dove, We Live in the City, and The Golden Calf, among others.
Her theater career also included significant contributions to children's theater, with various adaptations of classic literature such as Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and Momo.
Mestre was part of the cast of numerous television soap operas, series, and dramas. Thousands of Cubans remember her for her portrayal of Bernarda Alba in the reinterpretation of Federico García Lorca's classic, "The House of Bernarda Alba." She also worked in radio.
She received numerous accolades and awards, including the National Award for Artistic Teaching, the Maestro of Youth Award, the Alejo Carpentier Medal, and the National Theater Award in 2022.
Key Questions about Corina Mestre's Legacy
In light of Corina Mestre's passing, many are reflecting on her significant contributions to Cuban culture. Here are some key questions and answers about her remarkable career and legacy.
What were some of Corina Mestre's most notable theatrical roles?
Corina Mestre was celebrated for her roles in productions such as "Macbeth," "Blood Wedding," "The Fair of the Dove," and "The House of Bernarda Alba."
Which educational institutions did Corina Mestre attend?
Corina Mestre studied Performing Arts at the Higher Institute of Art in Havana, graduating in 1981.
What awards did Corina Mestre receive during her career?
Corina Mestre received numerous awards, including the National Award for Artistic Teaching, the Maestro of Youth Award, the Alejo Carpentier Medal, and the National Theater Award in 2022.