Opinion: To Roberto Cabrera… The Most Supportive and Engaged Tran 

“Thousands of colors, pockets with flowers, laughter for the heart… little Tran Tran clown.”
The catchy song that Saylen composed for the International Clown Festival of Gran Tarajal still rings in my head and soul.

Yesterday the final edition—by far the most difficult, as you know—came to a close. Despite every obstacle, it said goodbye wrapped in the warm applause of an audience devoted to this celebration of red noses and children of all ages.

It has been weeks of uncertainty, with the festival’s future repeatedly questioned. News arrived from every direction:

• Accusations of poor management by the Town Hall, which carries a €3 million debt to suppliers despite having the funds to settle it.
• An opposition that exploits the situation to harshly criticize the corporation’s work, even demanding its collective resignation.
• A rumored “black hand” that is increasingly mentioned in the conversations and gatherings of Tuineje residents.

On the Stage

In this context, alarms rang on Friday morning when a group of mothers and fathers expressed their discontent and, through the media, denounced the suspension of the children’s parade that ignites the festival’s flame each year.

“The cancellation was announced early this morning and, according to a press release the Town Hall issued hours later, it was ‘due to difficulties arising from a shortage of staff inherited from previous administrations and several medical leaves among municipal employees.’”

Mayor Candelaria Umpiérrez explained that, although the presence of the Local Police was guaranteed, the Security Plan could not secure an ambulance. Prioritising safety above all, she emphasized that the clowns visited schools and did not miss their meeting with the children.

Times of Silence

In this period of demonstrations, criticisms and reproaches that dominate the public agenda, you, Roberto, have managed to stay silent; you have stayed away from the spotlights and have handled the discontent that, at times, has affected—without doubt—some of the volunteers who form the huge group of friends of Chanita, the great Tran Tran family.

You, Roberto, have kept, like no one else, the most important secret: the Clown Festival will stay alive, now and beyond, keeping the town’s heart beating.

This was demonstrated this weekend during two days of joy in which Chanita could enjoy meeting her own people.

Two days in which Gran Tarajal vibrated with happiness—neighbors on windows and balconies, decorated establishments, and an audience that filled the sidewalks to witness the grand parade.

Flying

Acrobats, clowns, and tight‑rope walkers all wanted to be present; some even after a year had passed without being paid for their last performance. A great number of people, over three decades, have been infected by the magic of this festival and, now more than ever, have chosen to support it.

All sparked the smile of a town that came en masse to make it clear that Tran Tran “is not to be touched.”

Heart of the Clown

The programme centred on the square presided over by a rejuvenated Chanita. Most performances took place there in a day that offered no midday break.

We must also highlight the atmosphere created around the beach, with the traditional cake‑war celebration—the only battle that should be celebrated worldwide, as you recall each year, Roberto Cabrera.

The Attack

In the crowded fairground, the stage vibrated with the involvement of the Laura Cerdeña dance schools and the Datana academy, which showcased the powerful energy it injects into its performances—from Fuerteventura to the United States—and that also fueled Tran Tran.

By night, with the area’s restaurants and bars in full swing, the presenter, with great mastery, put the final point on an edition glittering with sparkle.

The fairground announced the awarded performances and, above all, honoured the great family of volunteers who have made this the most generous and participatory festival.

Long Live the People

Long live the people and a great life for the Gran Tarajal Clown Festival, which, throughout the rest of the year, continues to be present and to spread smiles at the General Hospital of Fuerteventura, thanks to Hospitrán. And thank you, great Roberto Cabrera.