The Return of Trabachones for Carnaval 2027
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival seldom knows a break, yet sometimes groups require a pause. This was the case for Trabachones in 2026, who experienced a “strange” carnival from the sidelines, having not set foot in their venue for the six months prior and having nothing to showcase in February. However, that hiatus has ended. The murga, renowned for its critical style and commitment to the carnival essence, is now preparing for its return in Carnaval 2027. Yone Expósito remains at the helm, directing a group that has never lost its hunger for the finals.
In this interview, Yone reflects on how the past year of inactivity has affected the group, reveals that they are already “working behind the scenes” to make a comeback, announces changes in musical direction, and conveys a clear message: “Trabachones aims to present the same image as always—a serious, committed murga that respects our tradition.”
With an eye on the upcoming carnival, themed “Rome, the Empire of Carnival,” Yone hopes to ignite enthusiasm in the fans simply by being able to perform once again. As he aptly puts it, “Getting back to making murgas and engaging in carnival is a cause for joy.”
Reflections on 2026
Q: How did you experience the last Carnaval 2026, when Trabachones was unable to take the stage?
A: It was strange. It felt odd to watch from the outside, having not been in the venue for six months and lacking anything to show in February. However, that’s how it turned out. I imagine you’re now preparing the project for Carnaval 2027, where Trabachones will definitely participate?
A: Yes, we have begun to mobilise everything. A few of us have been working for months to get things in motion, and we’ll be announcing a meeting soon. We’ve gradually worked behind the scenes, hoping to keep everything on track to be present next year.
Lessons from the Hiatus
Q: What did the murga learn during this year of pause?
A: I can’t speak for the whole group, as we paused completely. However, some members joined other murgas, and a few took advantage of the break, but I imagine the majority experienced it similarly to me. It has been a strange carnival. Those who are familiar with this world know that it isn’t just February; we start long before that, in summer. We begin meeting, preparing, and then rehearsing. A year feels odd when you’re so accustomed to it.
Goals for 2027
Q: What objectives do you have set for 2027?
A: Mainly, to be back, to revive Trabachones, to gather our family again, and to enjoy carnival together—that’s what we love.
Q: Do you aspire to reach the finals again?
A: Absolutely. We’ve never ceased fighting for that, regardless of the results or tastes. Trabachones has never lost its hunger for the finals and being present. Some years have been better than others, but I believe the quality of the murga has always been there, and we’ll continue with the same philosophy, striving to be among the eight finalists.
Maintaining Identity
Q: What remains unchanged from Trabachones’ last carnival participation?
A: I imagine we’ll see some departures and new additions among our members, as well as changes in the team and musical direction. We’re close to announcing a new musical director, so there will be some changes. However, the essence and core team will remain the same. Trabachones will strive to maintain the same image it has held: a serious, committed murga that enjoys and respects this.
Format Changes
Q: There was a change in the competition format last carnival: four phases with the final on Saturday. How did you experience that from the sidelines?
A: It was good, to be honest. It seems a bit more convenient, finishing a bit earlier, and feels a bit more enjoyable. We have an extra day of murga, which I see as a positive aspect.
Future Participation
Q: Looking towards 2027, there are rumours about possibly filling spots and questioning the participation of northern murgas. What is your perspective?
A: First, we need to see if that spot is reached, as we all know there are many groups wanting to participate in the carnival, and often conditions don’t allow it. Some that wish to return may end up not being able to. Regarding northern murgas, everyone agreed to these rules, so I presume they will be respected, and there shouldn’t be an issue. But I don’t think we’ll see 24 murgas from Santa Cruz. Hopefully, but with the current level of northern murgas, I’m not sure the competition would suffer without them.
Thematic Excitement
Q: For the next Carnaval 2027, we have the allegorical theme: “Rome, the Empire of Carnival”. Do you like this as a theme?
A: Yes, I prefer it when the public engages and the theme is somewhat related to the carnival allegory. I think people will like it, as it harks back to significant carnivals in Santa Cruz’s history, which seems to be the intention. From that perspective, it’s good. However, I would like citizens to always have the opportunity to vote, choose, or have something to say about something as vital as the Carnival in Santa Cruz. But overall, I don’t dislike the theme.
Reigniting Passion
Q: Finally, why should fans feel excited about Trabachones in 2027?
A: Mainly because we’re back! Last year, for those who care about this name and this collective, was not hard but certainly strange. This year, being able to reopen our venue, be with people, and formulate a project brings us joy. The results, carnival, and such are separate matters. But for now, getting back to creating murgas and enjoying carnival is a joyous occasion for us and those who love it.
