The anticipation is palpable as the finalists for the Gran Final of the COAC 2025, the Concurso Oficial de Agrupaciones Carnavalescas, have been unveiled. This highly celebrated event will take place on February 28, 2025, at the renowned Gran Teatro Falla in Cádiz, drawing attention from Carnaval enthusiasts around the globe.
At 01:10 AM on February 27, 2025, the official jury stepped onto the stage of the Gran Teatro Falla to announce its verdict, marking the conclusion of the semifinals and the beginning of the countdown to the final showdown. Amid much deliberation, the jurors revealed the names of the eager groups destined to perform one last time on this prestigious stage.
According to reports, the jury is presided over by Anabel Balboa Serrano, with Domingo Acedo Moreno serving as secretary. The evaluation team has been diligently assessing performances throughout various stages, from preliminaries to semifinals. Their hard work has culminated in the selection of 14 groups, all achieving the threshold of 450 points needed to secure their place.
The successful finalists are categorized as follows:
Coros:
- 'Las entrañas de Cádiz'
- 'Cádiz: El show'
- 'El gallinero'
- 'El lado oscuro'
Comparsas:
- 'La tribu'
- 'Las ratas'
- 'El cementerio'
- 'Los del otro barrio'
Cuartetos:
- 'Ku Klux Klan Klan'
- 'Un clásico nunca falla'
Chirigotas:
- 'Los calaíta (fuimos a por tabaco)'
- 'Los butaneros (chirigota de CAI/CDC)'
- 'Los James Bond que da gloria verlos'
- 'Cádiz, los que van a cantar te la sudan (los disléxicos)'
Notably, this year’s festival has been marked by intense competition, particularly within the chirigota category, which has posed notable challenges for the jury. It reflects both the creativity and the traditional essence of Carnaval de Cádiz, where humor and satire reign supreme.
Preparations for the Gran Final are well underway, scheduled to commence at 20:00 local time. Radio Cádiz is gearing up to provide comprehensive coverage of the event, with Ignacio de la Varga leading the broadcast team. Listeners can expect lively commentary and behind-the-scenes insights from seasoned hosts and special guests around the theater.
Participants and spectators alike are excited about the unique atmosphere of the Gran Teatro Falla, with many familiar faces returning to witness the spectacular performances. The anticipation is accentuated by the fact this year's competitors include both returning favorites and new entrants, each bringing their own flair and style.
Reflecting on the importance of the event, one jury member noted, "Las agrupaciones que han conseguido su pase a la gran final son un testimonio del talento y la dedicación que caracteriza al carnaval gaditano." This sentiment captures the essence of what Carnaval de Cádiz means to its participants and fans, embodying both cultural pride and artistic expression.
With the countdown to the final beginning, excitement is rife among fans. A draw for the order of performance will be held at 10:00 AM on February 27, which will reveal the running order of the finalists for the audience's viewing pleasure. Fans of the Carnaval and the arts will surely be glued to their screens.
So, mark your calendars! The Gran Final of the COAC 2025 will not only showcase the top talents of this year's Carnaval but will also continue the tradition of familial and social connection through music, laughter, and joyful revelry. A true celebration of culture, community, and Carnival spirit awaits.