The Sun, the Stage, and the Spanish Dream: An Interview with Elżbieta Jodłowska

Elżbieta Jodłowska is an actress, cabaret artist, screenwriter, and theater producer who has been a fixture on the Polish stage and screen for years. Audiences know her, among other things, from cult films and TV series, as well as for creating and producing the play “Klimakterium... i już,” which has been running for two decades. In an interview with “Polska Costa,” she talks about her love for Spain, her life between two countries, and her artistic journey.

Elżbieta, where did your fascination with Spain come from?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: When I was young, Spain was an unattainable dream, an inaccessible, exotic country. Times have changed, and we’ve been allowed to travel the world. My first encounter with the “West” was California. Sun, palm trees, abundance, physical labor, and a terrible longing for home. So far away from my loved ones, acquaintances, and friends.

I returned to Poland, wrote Menopause and That’s It, and went back to the stage, film, and television. But life went on, and I wasn’t getting any younger. War broke out right on our border. We were all terrified. Where could we flee to? California is far away. Today, all you have to do is buy a cheap plane ticket, and in three hours you’re home. That was the moment when I decided to buy “something” in Spain.

What were the early days like, and how did you go about buying property on the Costa Blanca?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: I made a preliminary appointment with Agnieszka, who was recommended to me by a friend; I bought a plane ticket, booked a small hotel room in Torrevieja, and that very same day, Agnieszka showed me around a selection of apartments. I have to admit that she took great care of me right after I landed in Alicante. Within three days, we chose an apartment, took care of all the details—which were complicated for me but necessary—and just like that, I became the owner of my dream home in Spain.

What captivated you most about Spain?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: I saw Spain as a little California; I immediately felt at home. Stunning nature, friendly, cheerful people, cafes, small restaurants, and well-stocked stores.

The presence of older people—often with their pets—was also important to me. I like seeing older, happy people. In Spain, pets are considered family members and are protected by law. I love animals, and they’re important to me. It’s a shame I can’t just take my dogs on a plane and experience a Spanish adventure with them.

In fact, at every turn, you can encounter kindness, have a conversation in broken English, and get a helping hand from the locals. I don’t have time to learn Spanish anymore, but these days, with AI, you can get by just fine anywhere.

I’ve already had a chance to explore the area, marvel at its history, slather myself in healing mud, and of course, the Mediterranean Sea—my greatest love—sunsrises and sunsets viewed from my own terrace, the sea breeze that helps me endure the heat, and the peace that washes over me, which I need most of all today.

Is life in Spain different from life in Poland?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: What specifically sets our societies apart? In my opinion, it’s the concept of time. Making an effective and punctual appointment with a Spanish professional is practically a miracle. They have time. Official matters can also drag on indefinitely. I’m glad someone can take care of this for me.

Spain is a place to fall in love with. Life there moves at a slower, more leisurely pace, and that's exactly what I need. That's where I find joy in life today.

You mentioned Agnieszka Pawelska. What role did she play in helping you settle into life in Spain?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: Agnieszka Pawelska turned out to be my guide, impeccably honest—you have to admit that these days, the certainty that no one will cheat you is worth its weight in gold — and helpful in finding the professionals, doctors, drivers, and cars I needed.

And how do you feel about being part of the Polish community living on the Costa Blanca?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: The Polish community is very active in that area. They have their own clubs, gatherings, and events. It’s definitely worth joining them.

You can also always ask your fellow countrymen living there for help. For example, I ordered a hat-shaped cake from one of the ladies for my husband’s birthday. It was delicious, unique, and pretty. I posted a request online in a local community group.

Spanish cuisine has many fans. What do you like best?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: Food! Fish, seafood—squid, shrimp, octopus—tapas served in bars and restaurants, cheeses, cured ham, and delicious paella or tortilla española. And for dessert, of course, churros served with hot chocolate.

For lovers of these delicacies, it’s paradise. I’m happy to try these delights, but I love simple, tasty Polish cuisine that I can whip up in my own kitchen. It’s quick, tasty, and inexpensive.

You have had an impressive artistic career. What gives you the greatest satisfaction today?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: Basically, I’ve been working as an actress from my early youth until today. I won’t mention the numerous awards, medals, honors, and accolades. They’re just sitting in a drawer. What matters most is what remains in the audience’s memory.

Throughout my life, I’ve had a whole host of television appearances, stage performances, recitals, concerts, and theater productions. It’s only now, as I look back at reviews, photos, and memories, that I realize what a wonderful life I’ve had. I’ve worked with the most outstanding writers and artists.

I think the public remembers me most for my roles in movies and TV series like Brzydula, Świat według Kiepskich, and Miś. I’ve appeared in over forty productions, but I still feel most at home on stage in front of a live audience.

Today, Klimakterium i już and Klimakterium 2, czyli menopauzy szał have earned me popularity and the audience’s affection. I wrote, produced, and starred in them. To this day, I’m the head of the agency that manages the production and ensures the high quality of the entire show.

What are your plans for the near future?

Elżbieta Jodłowska: I wish I could travel to Spain as often as I’d like, but I’m always working. This year has been particularly busy—the 20th anniversary of “Klimakterium” and the 70th anniversary of Stodoła, the student club where I began my artistic career. I’d like to invite you to my benefit performance at Stodoła on December 3.

I have to hurry—I’m the only relatively well-known performer left from that era. I think that after these celebrations, as early as next year, I’ll be able to enjoy Spain as an 80-year-old woman. I’m really looking forward to it.

Now I'm planning to end the year with a bang, take stock of my life, and relax… maybe in Spain.