ExLímite

ExLímite is an independent theatre and performance space in Madrid's Usera district, built around experimental theatre, contemporary dance and research into performing arts.

What is ExLímite?

ExLímite isn't a conventional repertory theatre. It works more like a creative laboratory — a venue for training programmes, workshops, artist residencies and showcases by independent theatre and dance companies. Rather than running one company's fixed season, the space organises its calendar around thematic cycles, methodology workshops and productions brought in by different collectives.

The building itself has an industrial past. Constructed in 1995, it originally operated as a metalworking locksmith's workshop, later switching to paper and cardboard recycling. In 2010 the space was converted for theatre use and ran for six years under the name Kubik Fabrik. In November 2017, Compañía exlímite took over the venue, merging its own artistic project with the site's existing performance activity.

Who runs it?

Two people with complementary backgrounds shaped the project. Gerard Imbert is a professor of audiovisual communication and former director of the French Institute in Madrid. Juan Ceacero is an actor who also directs the exlímite theatre company. The company itself staged its first production in 2015, and two years later secured this permanent home.

The stated aim of the space is to bring together artists from different performing disciplines — theatre, dance, performance art — who want to work collaboratively and take creative risks, with a clearly contemporary outlook.

What can you see there?

The programme mixes training workshops on performance methodology, seasonal cycles of shows by independent companies, and works-in-progress open to limited audiences. It suits visitors looking for live, experimental theatre rather than large-scale commercial entertainment.

Because the focus is on research and training as much as performance, the schedule shifts throughout the year, so it's worth checking the venue's website for current listings before planning a visit.

How do you get to ExLímite?

The venue sits at Calle Primitiva Gañán 5, in the Usera district in southern Madrid.

The metro is the easiest option: Almendrales (Line 3), Plaza Elíptica (Lines 6 and 11) or Usera (Line 6) all leave a short walk to the venue. Bus routes 6, 60, 78, 81 and the night line N15 also serve the area. Travellers using the suburban rail network can get off at Madrid-Doce de Octubre station, and there's a BiciMAD bike-share dock nearby on Calle Isabelita Usera 44.

When should you go?

ExLímite doesn't run a daily fixed programme the way a mainstream theatre does — activities are organised in cycles and workshop periods spread across the year. It's best to plan a visit around a specific listed event rather than expect something on show at any given moment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is ExLímite located? At Calle Primitiva Gañán 5, in the Usera district in southern Madrid.

Is it a traditional theatre with a running repertoire? No — it's an independent training and research space hosting workshops, residencies and shows from different companies, with a programme that changes in cycles rather than a fixed nightly show.

What's the best metro route? The closest stations are Almendrales (Line 3), Plaza Elíptica (Lines 6 and 11) and Usera (Line 6).

Who founded and runs ExLímite? Gerard Imbert, a professor of audiovisual communication and former director of the French Institute in Madrid, together with actor and director Juan Ceacero, founder of the exlímite theatre company.