The atmosphere at the Gran Teatro Falla was alive with laughter and cheer as the Concurso Oficial de Agrupaciones Carnavalescas (COAC) 2025 semifinals concluded on February 28, 2025. The night featured performances from chirigotas, including 'Los James Bond que da gloria verlos' and 'Cádiz, los que van a cantar te lasudan (los disléxicos)', which delivered humor-packed acts intended to captivate audiences. Both groups successfully showcased their prowess, securing their spots for the upcoming grand final.
While the joyous performances painted one picture of the evening, controversy was brewing beneath the surface. The crux of the drama revolved around the order of performances, which took center stage after the chirigota 'Los inhumanos' raised alarms about their placement at the tail end of the first semifinal session. Following their performance, anger flared over the apparent favoritism exhibited during the scheduling of the event.
The discontent wasn't solely limited to 'Los inhumanos.' The entire board of the Asociación de Chirigotas de Cádiz, represented by president Jaime Fernández de la Puente, vice president Paco Cárdenas, secretary Álvaro Illesca, and treasurer César Augusto Dos Santos, felt their efforts since the association's creation were being undermined. "We've worked hard to represent the interests of chirigotas, but the recent scheduling decisions have felt unjust and detrimental to our goals," Fernández asserted.
Board members expressed their gratitude for their time serving the association but felt they could no longer continue under the circumstances. Their formal resignation was submitted to the City Council of Cádiz, reflecting upon what they deemed as systemic issues plaguing the festival organization.
The grievances peaked during the competition as chirigota 'Los inhumanos' publicly condemned the decision-makers, claiming they fell victim to outdated practices. Their accusation hinted at organizations they labeled as “casposas” (outdated), doubting whether those responsible truly cared about the welfare of traditional chirigotas. "It's bewildering to see two chirigotas performing at the end when it should have been well distributed among various groups," remarked José Guerrero, the voice behind 'Los James Bond que da gloria verlos,' reflecting on the discontent felt by many groups within the competition.
Despite the allegations and chaos of the evening, the show must go on. The performances continued, with 'Los del otro barrio' from Antonio Pérez el Piru, and 'DesOBDC!' from Germán García Rendón captivating the audience. The final rankings of the public choice awards remain tight, and every performance counts leading up to the final showdown.
The festival finds itself at the crossroads, recognized for its rich traditions yet challenged as numerous chirigota groups question the transparency of the organization. Fair treatment within performance orders emerged as priority topics among not just performers, but audiences and patrons committed to the integrity of the carnival. The resignation of the Asociación de Chirigotas de Cádiz's board is more than just administrative; it’s an echo of the heartbeat of Cádiz's cultural identity.
Although many may feel uncertain about the future direction of the festival and its governing associations, one thing remains evident: the Carnaval de Cádiz continues to be fueled by its passion, humor, and the determination of those at its core to fight for representation and quality performance. The final showdown is set for this Friday, with audiences eagerly anticipating how the events will unfurl amid the backdrop of the city's beloved carnival heritage.