There are buildings that hold books, and there are buildings that hold time. For ten years, the Biblioteca Auditório da Madalena—rising quietly in the heart of Pico’s Triângulo—has done both. Now, in partnership with the Municipality of Madalena, MiratecArts announces a yearlong cultural season to celebrate a decade of what has become the region’s largest and most dynamic cultural center.

Spanning from March 8, 2026 to March 8, 2027, the commemorative program will be officially unveiled on Sunday, March 8, at 4:00 p.m. at the Library. The launch follows a screening at the Madalena Auditorium of Sentimental Value (Valor Sentimental) by Joachim Trier—winner of Best European Film 2026 at the European Film Awards and nominated for nine Academy Awards. Admission to this special presentation is free, an open invitation to the community that has shaped the space as much as the walls themselves.

“Among many free events, we will also offer ticketed performances,” said MiratecArts Artistic Director Terry Costa. “There is something for every age—from babies to those well seasoned in life; contemporary arts; from classic films to the latest premieres; theater, dance, music, and performance as never before seen in this space.” His words suggest not simply a schedule, but a promise: that art here is not ornamental—it is lived.

Alongside its signature annual festivals—Azores Fringe, Festival Cordas, and AnimaPIX—each centered at the Biblioteca Auditório da Madalena, MiratecArts expands the celebration with film sessions presented by Cineclube Montanha and more than a dozen literary and knowledge-based events within the Library itself. The printed program also highlights the Library’s internal initiatives and performances by the three philharmonic bands of the Municipality of Madalena. In total, more than 80 events are slated for this milestone year.

“Together we will continue to honor this unrepeatable history of ten memorable years, celebrating this special anniversary with a unique and versatile program,” said Madalena Mayor Catarina Manito. “In partnership with MiratecArts—whose dynamism and dedication to promoting local arts decisively enriches the cultural and human life of our land—we move forward with pride.”

Following the launch event, the full program will be available online through the MiratecArts and Municipal websites, extending the invitation beyond the island’s shores. For ten years, the Library Auditorium has gathered voices, music, light, and memory. This season promises not only to commemorate that legacy—but to carry it forward, page by page, performance by performance, into the next chapter.

From Press Release