Miguel de Molina and El Bala Perdida: A Refuge of History and Art

Miguel de Molina was a renowned Spanish copla singer, known for his artistic talent and bravery during difficult times. Tortured, expelled from Spain, and persecuted by the Francoist dictatorship for being “marica y rojo” (“gay and red”), his life and work stand as a testament to resilience and authenticity. 

 
Despite all the challenges he faced, Miguel de Molina excelled in promoting his performances, becoming a master of marketing and stage publicity in his time. His most famous song, “Ojos verdes” (“Green Eyes”), remains a timeless classic. 
 
Miguel was not only a talented singer; he also designed and sometimes sewed his own costumes, understanding that a unique stage presence was essential to stand out. 
 
During the dictatorship in Spain, Miguel performed in clandestine venues, such as the space we now known as El Bala Perdida at Axel Hotel Madrid. It is deeply moving and significant for Axel Hotels to know that a space that once served as a clandestine refuge for homosexuals of the time is now a place where we celebrate diversity and freedom. 

Miguel de Molina had to go into exile due to Francoist repression, and although the official reasons were political, the truth is that his success provoked jealousy and envy, contributing to his persecution. 
 
At El Bala Perdida, we offer vibrant shows, but we also reclaim history and the fight for equality and freedom. We aim to remember and honor the legacy of those who, like Miguel de Molina, paved the way for acceptance and inclusion. 

So, the next time you visit El Bala Perdida, remember that you are in a place full of history and meaning.