Experiencing the Joy of Cueca Dance in Tenerife

The Cueca is also performed in Tenerife, not solely in Chile, as sung by The Chalchaleros – Argentinians from Salta – and many others thereafter, including María Dolores Pradera with our Sabandeños on a symbolic journey. This is akin to the situation faced by approximately 4,000 children of the Andean nation – many hold dual nationality – residing on the island. They come from all walks of life, according to the consul, Rafael Montero, who has been in office since July 2022; from scientists and workers to businesspeople and service workers, particularly caregivers, especially of the elderly or those with dependence.

Montero, who is a law graduate, works at the Cynical Aesthetic Health located on the central La Marina de Santa Cruz street. Following the passing of the renowned businessman Pedro García Sanjuán, who held the position before him, he submitted his application at the Madrid Consulate and received a positive response from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Santiago a few months later.

He highlights “the amiable nature” of Chileans, who are “very akin to the Canarians.” He recalls that Chile captivated him with its unique geography, with significant contrasts from north to south, as well as its history. The residents of his household were influenced by the Puerto de la Cruz, having fled the dictatorship of General Pinochet following the coup d’état in 1973.

A key moment in the yearly calendar for the Chilean community is the commemoration of their national holidays on September 18 and 19, when they showcase the best of their culture, from their rich gastronomy to the ancestral folklore represented by the cueca dance. They uphold their symbols with care while seamlessly integrating into the Tenerife Society. For the past twenty years, they have gathered in the Asculchicán collective, which is not named after a Mapuche chief (the indigenous people of the country) but rather stands for the Culture of Chileans in the Canary Islands. This cultural, social, and sports organisation aims to promote Chilean culture and facilitate experience exchange with the local community. It also serves as a support and guide for compatriots adjusting to life on the island.

Christian Alfaro, president of the group, exemplifies Chilean migration to Tenerife. He introduces himself with a phrase: “Have the right to be entitled.” In 2002, he departed Chile, where he lived “relatively well” as a miner. He humorously and sincerely asserts that “to a large extent, I owe my life in this paradise, Tenerife, to General Pinochet,” as he came to reunite with his brother and mother, who had left the country after their father’s sudden death amidst the repression of the military dictatorship.

He reflects that “the hardest part was starting from scratch and having the resilience not to give up.” He spent nearly two years without a contract before working “extremely hard” as a welder in confined spaces. He also faces severe issues with his eyesight.

He appreciates the contributions of the collective he leads, in partnership with the Cabildo and the Tenerife Solidaria strategy, clarifying its views on migration within schools and institutes. This, he suggests, is a way to “highlight and seek to eliminate stereotypes.” Hence the presence of Asculchicán, which is where he finds his place. Since the inauguration of the TEA, he has been active in giving talks in places like La Laguna or Tacoronte, and even La Palma, La Gomera, and Gran Canaria.

Christian values the two days of interaction between the Chilean and Canary communities at the end of October last year at Lake Martiánez in Puerto de la Cruz. He expresses his gratitude “to the staff” and the former socialist mayor, Marco González, “for their assistance and support.” He recounts an anecdote: “We figured out that Chileans get their nickname from their father, who was a footballer and, moreover, a specialist in Chileans (an acrobatic shot on the back towards the goal), another emblem of my country.”

During that weekend event, “we enjoyed two intense days, from dawn until dusk, filled with gastronomy, music – including a tribute to the murdered singer-songwriter Víctor Jara – folk traditions, theatre, and customs.” For instance, they raised the flag adorned with the white star and sang the national anthem before commencing any activity related to Chilean culture.

Alfaro reiterates the aim of “fostering cohesion and a sense of community.” He likens it to the meeting point at the Santa Cruz trail every Sunday: “Compatriots spot the flag from the tram and disembark to join us. We must continue to advocate to maintain it.”

Cristian speaks with pride about the Araucanos, “the only Indigenous people capable of resisting the Spanish and Portuguese, using the cold of the Andes mountain range as an ally.” He reflects on his two-decade absence from Chile: “It is one of my objectives for this year.” Although, the cueca also dances in Tenerife.

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