In Spain, cultural journalism is facing new challenges, and the presentation of the second Anna Pérez Pagès Award has become a significant event for the professional community. This is more than just a prize—it’s a signal highlighting the need to protect independent cultural platforms and support young professionals. As El Pais notes, the ceremony at Teatre Lliure in Barcelona brought together representatives from different generations and reminded everyone of the role of criticism in shaping public dialogue.
Established in memory of journalist Anna Pérez Pagès, the award has quickly become a symbol of recognition for contributions to the development of the cultural scene. This year, the jury selected Jordi Bordes, known for his publications in El Punt Avui and his active work on the Recomana.cat portal. His efforts go beyond reviews: Bordes supports initiatives aimed at revitalizing the profession and creating new opportunities for emerging critics.
The role of the critic today
Jordi Bordes began his career in 1994, working in local and regional media. Since 2003, he has specialized in theater criticism, and since 2018, he has collaborated with La República and several professional publications. His participation as a jury member in various theater competitions and his support for projects such as Premios de la Crítica and Novaveu set him apart among his colleagues. According to El Pais, the jury highlighted his persistence and ability to unite the professional community around new ideas.
Special attention is given to the Recomana.cat platform, which has become a space for exchanging opinions and analyzing performances. Bordes not only writes articles but also advances criticism as a profession by fostering continuity and involving young people. The revival of the Premios de la Crítica, at a time when many considered them lost, stands out as one of Bordes’ key accomplishments.
The award’s significance for the industry
The award ceremony sparked a discussion about the challenges facing cultural journalism in Spain. Participants emphasized that the profession needs new formats and ongoing support to stay relevant. In his speech, Bordes pointed out that experience teaches the importance of giving way to the younger generation, and that the sector can progress only by embracing change.
The festive mood of the ceremony did not prevent participants from addressing the future of the profession. There were calls to create stable and fair working conditions for journalists, as they are key to ensuring transparency and democracy in cultural life. The hosts, Glòria Ribera and Oriol Puig Taulé, took a creative approach to highlight the value of cultural journalism by performing a song with new lyrics inspired by the views of the professional community.
Context and trends
After the award ceremony, the evening continued with a musical program organized by Anna Pérez Pagès’s friends. This symbolized unity and support within the professional community. According to El Pais, such events help strengthen intergenerational ties and set new standards in the profession.
In recent years, Spain has seen growing interest in independent cultural initiatives and awards that highlight the importance of journalism beyond commercial interests. The emergence of new platforms and formats, support for young professionals, and a return to forgotten traditions are becoming part of modern cultural policy. Awards like the Anna Pérez Pagès not only recognize the achievements of individual journalists but also set the direction for the development of the entire industry.
