In 1992, with no previous experience, Agustín Martínez (1963) stepped onto the stage for the first time and immediately felt that “this is what I came into the world for”. ‘El Casta’ was born and Agustín left behind a degree in History and thirteen years as a tax official. More than three decades later, this pioneer of the monologue in Spain, with dozens of successful shows and emblematic characters such as Lorenzo Llamas, Klaus Kartoffel, Don Diablo or the Cardinal of Lloseta, was recognised in February with the prestigious Premi Ramon Llull. A recognition that, as he says, left him “walking on clouds, I couldn’t believe it. I feel proud and grateful because it comes from your people, from your land”, he says.
Agustín ‘El Casta’ poses next to his portrait dressed as Miguel de Cervantes, in a comedic nod to the classics. Photos: Piter Castillo.
His long career makes Agustín a more than qualified voice to reflect on the evolution of humour. “Humor hasn’t changed, it’s the people who have changed,” he declares. Today, “comedians have to think very carefully about what they say because it could land you in trouble or spark a backlash. It’s what I call the new Inquisition of social media,” he explains. “Humour used to be understood as such. Now you can’t afford to do things that were acceptable 20 or 30 years ago because you might even get reported.” As an example, he says with disbelief: “Martes y 13 were asked to apologize for a sketch they did 30 years ago! It’s outrageous.”
In his case, today’s heightened sensitivity hasn’t caused him any trouble. “My kind of humour hasn’t brought me any grief,” he says. The key lies in his style: “I prefer gentler, more accessible comedy that reaches everyone.” It’s a humour, he says, “rooted in everyday life because there’s nothing healthier than being able to laugh at ourselves.”
A boomer at heart
One thing Agustín ‘El Casta’ hasn’t changed in his 33-year career is his creative process. It all begins with “gathering ideas and jotting them down, always in pencil, because I really like being able to erase… I’m such a boomer,” he admits. Then comes the task of sorting and structuring. “I call it shifting earth, like miners, until you find a little nugget of gold, that 15% that’s actually worth keeping,” he explains. Once the material is refined, he copies it out in pen, and only when it’s perfect, onto the computer.
Comedians have to think carefully about what they’re going to say because they can get into trouble with the new Inquisition of social media
And it’s not that he’s averse to technology, “it’s just that I’m old-school. When I was studying, we didn’t have any tech at all,” the comedian recalls. That said, he’s grateful for the help his mobile gives him to jot down ideas whenever they strike, often inspired by what he sees on the street. He admits he used to forget things and it “really annoyed” him. Now, even if an idea comes to him in the middle of the night, “I grab my phone, open Notes, and write it down so it doesn’t slip away.” In fact, he’s planning to boost his social media presence soon, because “you have to move with the times, even if I find it a bit of a drag,” he says with a smile.
Backed by Chufo Lloréns
Agustín ‘El Casta’, during the interview.
Not many people know that Chufo Lloréns played a crucial role in Agustín ‘El Casta’s’ career. It was Lloréns who, after discovering his work at Café Cala Gamba through his daughter, immediately recognised his immense potential. Now a renowned novelist, Lloréns had vast experience in the entertainment industry, having managed the careers of major performers such as Pedro Ruiz, Moncho Borrajo and Ángel Garó. He didn’t hesitate to compare Agustín with “the best Spanish-speaking comedians.” However, despite Lloréns’ support, guidance and enticing opportunities — including an appearance on Crónicas Marcianas — Agustín chose to stay in Mallorca, turning down the leap to the mainland. “Building a national career meant a level of sacrifice I wasn’t willing to make. You wake up not knowing where you are because you arrived late the night before. The Balearic audience has always been enough for me, they’ve never let me down,” he explains.
It’s out on the streets, as well as on stage, where Agustín ‘El Casta’ feels the warmth of his devoted audience. Unlike many public figures, he’s always happy to offer a greeting, a smile or pose for a photo. “I must be in every phone in Mallorca,” he jokes. The reason, he says, is simple: “We live off them and I have enormous respect for them.” That’s why, he insists, “if one day you’re in a bad mood or feeling unwell, just stay at home. Don’t take it out on anyone, they don’t deserve it.”
With Gastronomía noche y día still running, Agustín ‘El Casta’ is already thinking about his next project: “This year I’d like to do a show about animals, because I think there’s so much to explore.” Though he adds with a laugh, “I might have changed my mind completely in a month.” What he’s certain about is that he’ll carry on as long as his body allows.
STRAIGHT FROM ‘EL CASTA’
– Who is more to blame for the tourist overcrowding in Mallorca, Lorenzo Llamas or Klaus Kartofells?
– I’ve always said that the Germans wouldn’t have bought if we Mallorcans hadn’t sold… and I think we’ve gone too far. Now we don’t know where to put ourselves.
– What about the political tension?
– It wears me out. There is no need to build walls. I don’t know who is interested in or pulling the strings of this confrontation. Politicians should take an example from the transition, a time of optimism and fun.
– Is society deeply polarised?
– What angers me is that, today, you’re automatically placed on one side. I don’t want to be put on any side because I might be close to you for one thing or for another. I’m in my place, I don’t belong to anyone.
– Is Trump a comedian in disguise?
– No, but he’s a blessing, pure fuel for comedians because of the character’s range. For the world, well…
– Name three comedians for a dinner.
– Peter Sellers, who was capable of being and voicing anyone; Lina Morgan, a goddess of humour with whom I would have loved to work, and Chiquito de la Calzada, who invented a whole universe around him.
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