María Castillo: ‘We had never experienced such a tragedy at Bellas Artes’

Santo Domingo.- The director, teacher, and actress María Castillo expressed the deep sorrow felt by the National School of Fine Arts community over the passing of actor Stuart Ortiz, whom she defined as an exceptional human being and one of the most representative figures of Dominican theater.

During the funeral services, Castillo stated that the institution had never faced a loss of such magnitude, due to the affection and respect that Ortiz had earned among students, teachers, and colleagues.

“Our school had never experienced such a tragedy involving a human being so beloved by everyone,” the actress stated, highlighting the presence of teachers, classmates, and even people who traveled from other countries to bid their final farewell.

Castillo recalled that Stuart Ortiz was at the peak of his artistic career. At 40 years old and with nearly two decades of experience, he was considered the iconic actor for the plays of playwright Haffe Serulle, with whom he developed important theatrical projects.

You can also read: Fine Arts mourns the passing of actor Stuart Ortiz of the Dominican Traveling Theater | De Último Minuto | Today’s news in the Dominican Republic

Likewise, he recalled that he shared the stage with Ortiz for the first time in a play written by Cerulles, an experience that marked the beginning of a close professional relationship and friendship.

When describing the actor’s legacy, María Castillo stated that he will be remembered primarily for his human quality.

“I will remember him as an extraordinary human being. Everyone here is moved, crying and dedicating words of admiration, affection, and exaltation to his kindness and his humanity,” he expressed.

The director maintained that Stuart Ortiz’s departure leaves an irreparable void in the artistic community, but assured that his legacy will remain alive in the hearts of those who shared with him on and off the stage.