The XLII Flamenco Festival «In Memoriam Joaquín Garrido» has commenced in Villa del Río with an event filled with emotion and recognition for the figure of Francisco Tabares Madrero, a deeply cherished enthusiast of flamenco, saetas, and local songs.
The tribute was attended by his widow, Ana Ramírez, his daughters Ana Pilar and María Tabares, family members, friends, and numerous flamenco aficionados, who fondly remembered Paco.
During the event, speakers included Pedro Romero, a member of the board of the «Fosforito» Flamenco Club; Isabel Durán; and the Councilor for Festivities, Pedro Sánchez Collado.
The family expressed their gratitude to the City Council of Villa del Río, the «Fosforito» Flamenco Club, especially Pedro Romero, and all attendees for this recognition, highlighting Paco's role as an enthusiast who lived flamenco intensely and always supported the art form.
Isabel Durán also emphasized the importance of Francisco Tabares in her own flamenco career and the support she received from him, particularly in her early steps which were also linked to Joaquín Garrido.
Pedro Sánchez Collado noted that although Paco is no longer physically with us, «his soul and spirit remain here,» also dedicating this new edition of the Flamenco Festival to him.
Pedro Romero delivered a tribute to Francisco Tabares and, on behalf of the «Fosforito» Flamenco Club, presented a commemorative plaque. A bouquet of flowers was also presented to his daughters.
The tribute concluded with the screening of a video showing Francisco Tabares performing some songs at the «Fosforito» Flamenco Club, accompanied on guitar by Miguel Ángel Laguna.
It was a night to honor someone who lived flamenco with passion, feeling, and deep affection for his town.
