CAF recognized the scenography of the neighborhood stages (tablado barrial)

(Montevideo, March 7^th, 2014)  In the framework of its strong commitment with social development through cultural activities, and specifically to support the Carnival, which is one of the most important manifestations of the cultural identity of Uruguayans, CAF, Development Bank of Latin America, awarded prices to the best scenography of the neighborhood stages for the third consecutive year. On this occasion, the winners were  Aires Puros, Sayago and Colon. 

The jury who selected the winning scenography included  Milita Alfaro, in representation of the Carnival Museum;  Ivan Arroqui, delegate from the programEsquinas de la Cultura de la Intendencia de Montevideo(Culture Corners of the Montevideo Mayor's Office); and Martin Iribarren, from the School of Fine Arts. The experts considered aspects such as design, construction process, and the possibility of using the scenography throughout the traditional festivities. 

Other distinctions were also awarded to the stages located in theClub Arbolito-El Tejano, for its treatment of light;Las Torres, for its contribution to the rescue of the tradition; Lavalleja, for the use of light and color with a carnival perspective;Punta de Rieles, for its large format and integration of draped textiles; andSanta Catalina, for the treatment of the scenic space. 

CAF's Director Representative in Uruguay, Gladis Genua pointed out that this awards are part of a project to provide wide support to the Carnival Museum and to what the carnival represents for the cultural identity of Uruguayans. She stated that "our aim is to promote the dissemination of the elements that are behind this popular festivity, encourage the participation of neighborhoods, and recover an old tradition of community work with the ultimate objective of preserving Uruguay's cultural heritage". 

In 2012 the Institution started a project with the Carnival Museum, to create a Documentation and Information Center, develop research lines regarding the Carnival, and start a web platform (www.museodelcarnaval.org) through which diverse tourism and cultural activities that take place in Montevideo may be marketed.   

During the award ceremony, the Director of the Carnival Museum, Graciela Michelini thanked "all the neighborhoods that have accompanied the museum in this work that has been ongoing for seven years", and highlighted "the fraternal spirit" prevailing in the contest, where "it is a pleasure to see that everybody's work produces results and consolidates spaces to work together, making us all increasingly better". 

At the same time, the Mayor of Montevideo, Ana Olivera, pointed out that these types of activities are a part of "the tradition that is part of our identity", and allows us not only to "not lose it", but rather that "generation after generation can recognize and improve it", calling to "continue with this work, because the neighborhood carnival is part of our culture".