It's well known that dying can be financially burdensome, and funeral homes often exploit their monopoly over mourning. In moments of profound grief and trauma, how can one possibly refuse the hefty fees imposed upon them? Five years ago, Carmen Marfà and Yago Alonso premiered a poignant play titled Instructions for Burying a Father at the Sala Flyhard, a production disrupted by a pandemic that spared nothing, not even death itself. Now, they've revamped the play and unveiled it at the Borràs under a new name: Extraordinary Measures, featuring a fresh cast. Despite the talent involved, the play struggles to soar.

The narrative centers around Ovidi's recent passing, leaving his son in a dire financial predicament as he faces the cost of burial. Denied a loan by the bank, he must rely on his creativity to proceed. Mercè Aránega plays the grieving widow, Francesc Ferrer portrays the son, and Mia Sala-Patau, who recently debuted in Expulsion, takes on the role of the granddaughter. The plot's lack of realism (even the most impoverished families manage to bury their loved ones) and the weak characterization hinder the production, leaving it wanting in humor and emotion. Among the dialogue, one line stands out: "Misery is exhausting."

Watching three skilled actors grapple with a script riddled with clichés and stereotypes can be quite disheartening. The reminders, flowers, musicians—all come at a steep price, as we know. The concept of a personalized funeral and custom coffin, akin to a cast signed by friends, is charming and heartfelt, yet tragically underutilized. It's genuinely disappointing. Though I initially intended to title this review Death Becomes You, the production itself thwarted that idea. May it rest in peace.

Dramaturgy and Direction: Carmen Marfà and Yago Alonso.

Cast: Mercè Aránega, Francesc Ferrer, Mia Sala-Patau.

Teatre Borràs, Barcelona. Until July 13.