The Casa de la Festa has once again hosted the presentation of the portaestandarte and elected personalities for the extraordinary representations of the Misteri d’Elx, which occur in even-numbered years. Carmina Verdú, who recently retired from her role as the head of the Municipal Historical Archive of Elche, has been chosen as this year's portaestandarte. She will be joined by María Teresa Botella, the former vice president of the Patronato del Misteri d’Elx, and Daniel Tovar, who has served as the Festa's hairdresser for 30 years.
José Manuel Sabuco, president of the Patronato, stated, "These positions hold significant honorary meaning today, representing public recognition of professional, personal, or institutional contributions to the preservation of our Misteri." The trio expressed their "privilege, pride, joy, and honour" at receiving this recognition from the Patronato del Misteri d’Elx, as they prepare to experience the autumn representations from a privileged position on the walkway.
Irene Ruíz, the councillor for Culture, highlighted that this appointment reflects two fundamental pillars of the Misteri: the guardianship of its legacy and the family of the Festa. She noted that the elected individuals embody this guardianship, showcasing their dedication and professionalism, which is only surpassed by their love for the Misteri.
The trio will occupy preferred seating at the end of the walkway, next to the Cadafal, where the Assumption drama takes place. They will also be responsible for introducing the actors portraying San Juan and Santo Tomás, as well as being the first to pay homage to the reclining image of the Virgin of the Assumption.
