The public filled Mancha Blanca during an evening that brought together groups from all the islands, reaffirming Lanzarote’s status as the epicentre of Canarian folklore.
Celebration of the XXXV Encuentro Folklórico
The XXXV Encuentro Folklórico Nanino Díaz Cutillas, held this past Friday as part of the celebrations in honour of Our Lady of Sorrows, attracted a large audience that enjoyed a magical night of music and tradition. Once again, Lanzarote wholeheartedly embraced this festival, which is regarded as one of the most significant events in Canarian folklore, keeping alive the cultural legacy of the beloved poet and folklorist from Gran Canaria for over thirty-five years.
A Celebration of Unity
The President of the Cabildo of Lanzarote, Oswaldo Betancort, highlighted the success of the event, stating, “This gathering is not just a musical spectacle; it is a symbol of unity between islands and generations. Tinajo and Lanzarote have become the heart of Canarian folklore, proudly hosting a tradition that strengthens our identity and showcases the best of our heritage to the outside world.”
Emphasis on Cultural Richness
Meanwhile, the Councillor for Culture, Jesús Machín Tavío, emphasised “the warmth of the Lanzarote audience, who once again filled the venue and demonstrated that this festival remains one of the cultural jewels of the Canary Islands. The Encuentro Nanino Díaz Cutillas is a bridge between tradition and the future, reminding us that words, music, and dance are essential parts of our history.”
Diverse Representation of Groups
The evening featured a diverse representation of groups from all the islands of the archipelago. Participants included the Agrupación Coros y Danzas de Arrecife and Calicanto from Lanzarote; Beatriz Alonso and Javier Cerpa from Gran Canaria; Víctor Estárico with a guest soloist from Fuerteventura; Almudena Hernández from La Graciosa; Los Arrieros and Candela Gorrín alongside Juanma Benítez from La Palma and El Hierro respectively; Grupo Folklórico San Borondón from Tenerife; and Juan Mesa & Tetrabaifo from La Gomera.
A Masterful Presentation
The presentation was handled by the verse poet and folklorist Yeray Rodríguez, who infused the event with warmth and literary flair, guiding the performances of each group with wit and humour.
