"The Tongue Is A Muscle, But Language Is A Virus"

The theatrical landscape of Corrientes is alive with the innovative play “La lengua es un músculo, pero el lenguaje es un virus” [The Tongue Is a Muscle, But Language Is a Virus], a captivating exploration of language through humor. Now in its third season after a remarkable debut in 2022, the show has become a sensation, with tickets flying off the shelves from February to December 2023.

Written and performed by Diego Carreño, the play draws on the humorous and linguistic musings published on Facebook by Gabriel Wolf, a member of the acclaimed group “Los Macocos,” since 2014. In this latest iteration, Carreño is joined by director Leandro Aita, with a shift towards minimalist staging, setting the scene for introspection and comedic exploration.

A Journey into Isolation

The protagonist, known as E., has secluded himself in a luxurious family home perched atop a mountain for the past 24 years, laboring over a thesis aimed at affirming William Burroughs’ provocative claim that “language is a virus.” This unique backdrop amplifies the thematic exploration of language’s pervasive influence, treated with both humor and depth.

Throughout the performance, various rhetorical devices such as paradox, metaphor, and pun are utilized to craft a narrative that feels both accessible and intellectually stimulating. Carreño’s challenge is to convert the complexities of linguistics into relatable comedy, creating a bridge between highbrow theory and audience engagement.

A Collaborative Masterpiece

The production boasts a talented behind-the-scenes team, including Analía Cristina Morales for set and costume design, Marcelo Ceraolo for sound design, and Pablo Bronzini for original music. The evocative lighting designed by Víctor Chacón complements the action on stage flawlessly, enhancing the audience’s experience of both the isolation and the humor.

Acclaimed Talent

Diego Carreño, an accomplished actor and playwright, has received accolades for his work, including awards for best actor and best play at the Festival de Humor Engrudo. He has collaborated with notable directors and participated in numerous theatrical productions, enhancing his reputation as a versatile performer in the Argentine theater scene.

Leandro Aita, the director, is no stranger to the stage. Having trained under esteemed teachers and directed a range of productions, he brings a wealth of experience to this project. His direction marks a thoughtful departure from technology-driven narratives, placing a greater emphasis on the raw essence of performance and language.

Thematic Resonance

Ultimately, “La lengua es un músculo, pero el lenguaje es un virus” [The Tongue Is a Muscle, But Language Is a Virus] invites audiences to reflect on the power of language and its role in shaping human experience. Humor is the vessel that delivers this message, making complex ideas accessible and engaging. As the performance unfolds, audiences are encouraged to embrace the laughter and insight it inspires.

As this show continues to resonate with audiences near and far, it underscores the timeless connection between language, humor, and human connection—an exploration that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, proving once again that while the tongue may be a muscle, the impact of language is nothing short of viral.