La Bola de Cristal

La Bola de Cristal was a Spanish TV Show that aired on TVE from 1984 to 1988. The show was the brainchild of Spanish writer Dolores Rico Oliver and was hosted by pop singer Alaska. The show, which was ostensibly targeted at a young audience, reflected the spirit of the times, that of the post-Franco Spanish transition and of the cultural and musical movement known as la movida. In contrast to previous shows, with a very childish use of language, it had continuous puns related to electronics: the Electroduendes puppets included Maese Cámara, Hada Vídeo and Bruja Avería as regular characters.

Directed by Lolo Rico Oliver, La Bola de Cristal leans on a strong ensemble — Alaska, Matilde Conesa, Isabel Bauza — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about family titles of 1984.