Albacete's bullfighting arena was alive with energy on Saturday, February 22, 2025, as it hosted the "Todos con Letur" festival, which brought together renowned toreros for a worthy cause. Aimed at providing financial support to the victims of the devastating DANA floods, this benefit festival captivated the audience with its emotional depth and thrilling performances.
The event commenced with over three-quarters of the Plaza de toros de Albacete filled, reflecting the community's commitment to solidarity. Emotions ran high as attendees observed a minute of silence for the victims of the DANA disaster, which had taken six lives and ravaged the town of Letur last October. During this solemn moment, the famous trumpeter El Soro enhanced the somber atmosphere with his solo, followed by the solemn notes of the Spanish national anthem.
Opening the festival, the skilled rejoneador Diego Ventura faced off against his first bull from Los Espartales. Though the bull, named Querido, lacked aggression, Ventura's class and technique shone through, earning him the first ear of the day. His artful display included technical maneuvers, showcasing his ability to control the horse and the bull gracefully.
Next up was the legendary Enrique Ponce, who dazzled the crowd with his poise and finesse as he handled his charge from Daniel Ruiz. Strikingly adept, Ponce’s performance culminated with a series of exquisite muletazos—an artistic movement so beloved by his fans. His first ear gleamed, symbolizing both his triumph and the gratitude of the local audience who hold him dear.
José María Manzanares took the stage with the third bull, also from Daniel Ruiz. His technical prowess was evident as he carefully navigated through the struggle of his bull, which was hesitant and low on strength. Manzanares showcased his ability to inspire confidence through his gentle handling of the bull, winning another ear for his patient efforts.
Alejandro Talavante's appearance was highly anticipated, proving to be equally spectacular with the fourth bull, which showcased much more liveliness. His earlier display of artistry during the capote section impressed many, and his fluency with the muleta as he executed stunning passes riled the crowd. With flawless execution, he exhibited not only his mastery of bullfighting but also his talent as both torero and ganadero, having raised the bull himself.
The festival's success was not only evident through the skilled performances of its participants but also through the electric atmosphere generated by the supportive crowd. The cheer and applause echoed throughout the arena, highlighting the local community's unity. Throughout the event, the phrase "We are all with Letur" became the rallying cry, reflecting the solidarity felt by all, from the toreros to the audience.
With every performance watched closely, the event uplifted spirits, which were deeply affected by the tragedy just months prior. The local community felt the festival's impact, as one official remarked, "The festival brought joy to our hurting town," emphasizing the role such cultural events play in healing and reconnecting the fabric of society.
Closing the celebration, the reverberations of applause mixed with the hopefulness of the supporters, reminding everyone present of the importance of coming together during tough times. The festival was more than just entertainment; it served as a powerful reminder of compassion, community, and resilience—a heartfelt tribute to the victims of the Letur disaster.
Overall, the "Todos con Letur" festival not only entertained but also laid bare the heart of the Spanish bullfighting tradition, intertwining it with the themes of empathy and support, as the Albacete Plaza showed its enduring spirit to assist those in need. It reaffirmed the shared belief among participants and spectators alike: when tragedy strikes, the community stands strong, united by collective resolve and compassion.