PLACES Re-creativa república 14

Re-creativa República 14, Olhão

Art, Music, Food, Dance, Language, History... Re-creativa República 14 has a little bit of everything

RE-CRIATIVA REPÚBLICA 14 is a Cultural association housed in a mansion in the middle of Olhão, built in the 19th century by the Conde d'Alte, and was originally a private dwelling. The Sociedade Recreativa Olhanense was established there in 1933, the first of this type of association in the Algarve and the fourth oldest in Portugal. Only wealthy individuals were accepted into this Society, and it was therefore nicknamed "Recreativa Rica" (Recreational for the Rich) by the people. Founded by around fifty illustrious figures from the town, including judges, members of the Town Council, the Customs House and the Church, Recreativa had strong cultural and entertainment interests. Over time, the building was used less and less, and it eventually became delapidated and run down. At the end of 2017, 5 individuals gathered together and volunteered to create an initiative true to their hearts. Fernando Júdice, Maria João Cabrita, Paulo Franco, Meinke Flesseman and José Salgueiro, all with the same passion for culture, arts, music, a hunger for originality and uniqueness, which led to the foundation of Recreativa. Recreativa is community driven and is now housed in this wonderfully restored building. Without grants, subsidies or assistance from the government, a thriving establishment now exists, with 800 members, representing 26 nationalities and is home to a wide array of cultural events. The building and grounds boast 1000m2 of space, utilized for events, exhibitions, concerts and performances. The foundation also offers piano, guitar and singing lessons, yoga, capoeira and pilates classes, Portuguese language lessons and culinary workshops. The restaurant is currently run by Paula Miguel, a well known chef who is known for having cooked for royalty in the past. On Friday evenings the menu is paired with the music theme of the night, for example Brazilian or Cape Verdian.

It was only recently that we heard about this venue, and curious, as ever, we decided on an evening out. We arrived early and had a wander around the magnificent building, its walls adorned with the work of various artists. Eventually we made our way to our table on the terrace. As the area around us filled up, we enjoyed wonderfully prepared food, desserts, drinks and service. On this particular night the performance was by a trio of highly skilled contemporary musicians from Porto and for us, one to watch. We enjoyed it so much that we will be going again and have supported the initiative by becoming a member. Members are given discounts on all events, funds raised from membership fees and all profits from events contribute to the continuous maintenance of the building. Members also recieve a weekly newsletter with up-todate news on events and special members offers. Currently showing (until 4th August) is a joint art exhibition entitled ‘Three in One’ with Shushma Legendre McIntosh exhibiting 'Whispers of Colours' a collection of monotypes in acrylic, a new series of oil and cold wax on wood, and collage, Fiona Gray presenting 'Into the Blue', new oil paintings exploring childhood memories and Antonia Williams

who's painting adorns our cover this month. Why not visit Re-creativa República 14 the next time you're in Olhão. Entrance is free when there are no events, and you don't need to be a member to attend the classes, restaurant or events. The building itself is worthy of a visit, even better, become a member, help support this very worthy cause and become part of the rich history of the City.

Contacts:

Address: Av. da República nº.14, 8700-310, Olhão, Portugal Tel: 910 513 614 Email: geral@re-criativarepublica14.pt Reservations: reservas@re-criativarepublica14.pt