The melodies of habaneras will once again resonate by the Mediterranean this Friday, June 19. The local group Canya de Sucre will be the protagonist of a new event in the Summer Nights series, organized on the terrace of the Hotel Albades in Benicàssim.
The performance will offer a journey through some of the most representative pieces of a musical genre closely linked to Spanish maritime history and the traditions of coastal towns in the Levante region. The concert will take place by the sea and will be accompanied by the traditional 'cremat', a custom rooted in habaneras gatherings.
Habaneras originated from cultural exchanges between Spain and Cuba in the 19th century. Over time, these compositions became part of the popular heritage of many Spanish coastal towns, particularly those linked to the lives of sailors and fishermen. Their lyrics evoke stories of journeys, farewells, impossible loves, and experiences at sea, traditionally performed in taverns and ports upon returning from fishing trips.
The group Canya de Sucre, formed in Benicàssim, will perform emblematic pieces from their usual repertoire. These include the composition that gives the group its name, 'Canya de Sucre', with lyrics by Fina Porcar and music by Paco Puig. Also featured will be 'D'un humil somriure', by the group's accordionist Fernanda Vila; 'La Canya Dulce', of Costa Rican origin; and 'La Viajera', with lyrics by Francisco del Val and music by Antonio Morcillo.
The repertoire will include two universal classics: 'La Bella Lola', one of the most iconic pieces of the genre, often accompanied by the traditional waving of handkerchiefs among attendees; and 'La Paloma', composed by Sebastián Iradier, one of the most internationally performed Spanish songs.
The performance in Benicàssim will serve as a prelude to another important event for habaneras enthusiasts. The municipality will host its traditional Habaneras Concert on the first Saturday of August, an event that attracts numerous followers of this sea-linked cultural manifestation each summer. The presence of groups like Canya de Sucre helps keep alive a musical tradition that is part of the cultural identity of many Mediterranean coastal municipalities.
