Lutxo Egia, cultural activist

Lutxo Egia is one of the promoters of Bira (Ronda 2, Bilbao). Much more than a pub, Bira is the spot for concerts, expos, dance and anything you can possibly imagine.

“Bira was a small-format project that has grown into something significant. Our agenda is practically closed until June with concerts by Oskar Benas, Iker Martinez eta Zaldi Herrenak, Trigger or Eva Sierra, as well as theatre, book presentations, and much more. Plus, our productions such as Transilbania or Urdin Elektrikoa”, says Egia.

Lutxo states that “each of us can do whatever they feel like doing: going to San Mamés, to the txoko or getting a massage in a spa. However, in cultural events, creators and artists always offer something unrepeatable that shapes and transforms us”.

He claims that the event of the year is, without a doubt, “the comeback of ‘Delirium Tremens’ in May at the BEC. A few days before, I think, Bad Religion will be playing.

And also in May, but at the Kafe Antzoki, Anestesia, I won’t miss the return of the band of singer María Ruiz”.

On his agenda there is the dance show ‘Reimagining the Jungle Book’ as well, by choreographer Akram Khan, at the Arriaga.

A CASCO VIEJO LOVER

Since Bira opened its doors, you can often come across Lutxo Egia on Ronda Street. ““If you are in the casco viejo (the old town) going to Ronda is a must, a symbolic cultural space. Just in a few square metres you come across 7Katu, and places like Zirika, Hemen or Bira, which make it an interesting and dynamic place“. En pocos metros cuadrados te topirzas con el gaztetxe 7Katu, y locales como Zirika, Hemen o Bira, que imprimen un dinamismo muy interesante ”.

As it’s not all about culture, Lutxo has a pintxo de tortilla “in Adaxka and gildas in Beltza Taberna in Barrenkale, a place with good music”. He recommends the small restaurants Teranga (Bailén) and Himalaya (Iturribide). “And the Madariaga bar in Somera, where it feels like home“. He highlights that he is “very much looking forward to seeing concerts at the Antzoki again. It’s a delightful place ”.