The Casa de Cultura ‘Rafael Zárate Molero’ in Manzanares was transformed into a vibrant venue on Sunday for the presentation of the VI National Folklore Award ‘Juan Cañí’. This year, the prestigious accolade was awarded to the musical duo Fetén Fetén, comprised of Jorge Arribas and Diego Galaz, by the Agrupación de Música y Danza ‘Manuel de Falla’.
The ceremony not only showcased a distinguished list of past recipients but also served as a heartfelt celebration of cultural heritage, connecting the past, present, and future. Amidst applause and deep emotion, Arribas and Galaz took to the stage to express their gratitude, stating that the honour “touched their hearts”.
The event featured a carefully crafted performance that metaphorically explored themes of memory, family, and intergenerational continuity. Members of ‘Manuel de Falla’ illustrated the symbolism of a needle and wool thread, representing an unbreakable link between past and future, emphasising that “where there are roots, there is continuity, and what unites a wool thread cannot be severed by iron scissors”.
Everyday objects were transformed into unique instruments in a delicate tribute to popular knowledge that resists oblivion, as theatre, music, and dance intertwined to honour the Burgos-based duo. Fetén Fetén expressed their immense appreciation for the affection received and underscored the importance of folklore in today’s society, allowing us to celebrate what unites us.
The award ceremony, named after the late Juan Sánchez-Migallón, also paid tribute to those who have quietly contributed to our history. Manuel Sánchez-Migallón, the director of the group and grandson of Juan Cañí, dedicated heartfelt words to women, stating, “This legend would not be in our hands without someone having done the other half of what we were meant to do; every page of this story belongs to you for your efforts and for making it possible.”
In this context, the Councillor for Culture, Jesús Romero, highlighted cultural heritage as a “living legacy” that society must maintain and transmit. He thanked Fetén Fetén for their courage to “explore new paths without renouncing their identity” and reaffirmed institutional support for cultural associations like ‘Manuel de Falla’ that strive to keep traditions alive.
Ultimately, the event in Manzanares was a celebration of popular culture, shared traditions, and the many individuals who have quietly woven the threads of our collective memory. The festivities concluded on a high note, with Arribas and Galaz returning to the stage to perform live for all attendees.
