At the tender age of six, Sofía Rodríguez Navarro has been crowned as the new children’s Queen of the Santa Cruz Carnival. Her enchanting ensemble, “Mi Ratito Favorito” (My Favorite Time), designed by Alexis Santana, represents the Golden Mile Playa de Las Américas. The costume serves as a heartfelt tribute to grandparents, who are revered for their nurturing and loving care, as expressed by the designer.
The newly crowned queen exudes charm and self-assurance as she embarks on her media appearances, showcasing her infectious smile and poise in front of the camera. Her mother, Alicia Navarro, accompanied by her father, Cristian Rodríguez, expressed pride in their daughter’s accomplishment, stating, “She is doing it very well, she has it in her blood, the family is very carnival-oriented, we love these galas.”
Reflecting on the journey that led to Sofía’s coronation, her mother shared, “It all started last year when my niece introduced us to Alexis Santana. Upon seeing the costume, Sofía expressed her desire to wear it as well. Alexis assured us that he would present her as a candidate the following year.” Thus began an exhilarating journey that culminated in her being crowned Children’s Carnival Queen last Sunday night.
Alicia expressed her overwhelming emotions, stating, “If you are living the experience, fatigue does not exist. We cried during the rehearsals, and when they announced her name during the gala, I was in disbelief that my daughter is the Carnival Queen.”
She further conveyed that the experience was “superbly gratifying” and that Sofía was “thrilled and deeply connected to her portrayal. She adores her fantasy, considering her grandparents as the best. While she was on stage, her grandparents were moved to tears.”
Alicia, who owns the El Rincón del Guayabo cafeteria, and resides in La Camella, Arona, emphasized the personal significance of the costume. She shared, “The fantasy originates from the cherished moments spent with my maternal grandfather during my childhood. I spent my summers at my grandparents’ house, where my grandfather’s playful and enthusiastic demeanor created my favorite memories.”
Designer Alexis Santana explained, “The fantasy depicts the traditional home of an elderly woman, where the staging portrays the grandmother receiving a call from her granddaughter, informing her of their customary Sunday gathering, symbolizing their cherished moments together.” He commended Sofía’s artistic expression, noting, “She seamlessly embraced her role, exuding the persona of an elderly woman in her mannerisms and speech. We successfully captured the innocence and tenderness of the fantasy through her portrayal.”
Alexis Santana has amassed an impressive record in recent years, securing the title of Children’s Queen in 2022 and prior to that, achieving a double win with the Senior Queen in 2020. Aspiring to also claim the title of the adult Queen, Santana’s creative prowess continues to captivate audiences.
While more reserved in conversation than in front of the camera, Sofía expressed her fondness for the telephone prop in her fantasy ensemble, asserting, “I adore the color pink.” She revealed her excitement for future Carnivals, sharing that she plans to attire herself as the Little Mermaid when attending with her family. Her mother playfully added, “She is thrilled, as she mentioned that she has to participate next year, ever since becoming Queen.”
