The Gran Teatre del Liceu deeply mourns the passing of Josep Vilarasau, Honorary Patron of the institution and a key figure in cultural philanthropy in Catalonia. As the driving force behind the Consell de Mecenatge del Liceu and a leading figure in the reconstruction of the Theatre following the 1994 fire, his commitment and vision have left an indelible mark on the history of the Liceu.
The Gran Teatre del Liceu expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of Josep Vilarasau, Honorary Patron of the institution and one of the leading figures in cultural philanthropy in Catalonia.
As the driving force and first president of the Consell de Mecenatge del Liceu from its creation in 1995 until 2015, when he was succeeded by Salvador Alemany, the current President of the Foundation, his connection with the Theatre proved decisive during one of the most significant moments in its history, playing a key role in the reconstruction following the 1994 fire. His commitment, vision and unwavering support for the Liceu have left an indelible mark on the institution.
Vilarasau held a PhD in Industrial Engineering and a degree in Economics and Business Administration, and was awarded an honorary doctorate by Indiana University. He was a professor at the School of Industrial Engineering of the Polytechnic University of Madrid (1962–1972).
He held several senior positions in public institutions. Among others, he served as Director of the Industrial Finance Bank (1964–1966), Director General of Telefónica (1966–1969), Director General of the Treasury and Budget (1969–1972), and Director General of CAMPSA (1974–1976).
In 1976, he was appointed Director General of Caixa de Pensions, where he led the institution's transformation and growth. He served as President of “la Caixa” from 1999 to 2003. As President of the “la Caixa” Foundation, he promoted the creation of CosmoCaixa and CaixaForum to foster science and the arts, established the Scholarship Programme for students studying abroad, and supported the creation of the IrsiCaixa Foundation for research.
At the time of his passing, he was Honorary Patron of the Gran Teatre del Liceu and Honorary President of “la Caixa” and of the Board of Trustees of the “la Caixa” Foundation.