"IT'S MY TURN NOW!"
Ángela Cholbi Mulet

New Fogueres queen Ángela Cholbi Mulet is a petite, shy girl who describes herself as "like any other". Indeed, like many of her fellow students, although she is studying for a diploma in Science at the I.E.S. No.1 in the port, Ángela is still not quite sure what the future holds for her. Travelling is likely to feature though as she lists a desire to journey amongst her lists of likes which include listening to music, being with her friends and going to the movies. But for 2012, her main objective will be to preside over a memorable Fogueres fiesta against a background of economic crisis.

Ángela has been part of the celebrations since her early childhood, first with her parents and then with her friends: "much like any other Xabiero". Her family can already boast plenty of experience with cousin Martha elected as president of the Quintà 2003 and sister Noria serving the second lady-in-waiting of the Quintà 2010. "It's my turn now!" she said.

She admitted that she was more excited by her friends yelling out her name than the moment when Ana Bolufer, queen of Fogueres 2011, confirmed that she had been elected for 2012. "That gesture meant a great deal to me, whether or not I would be queen." She said that her family reacted with plenty of joy and surprise, although she said that her mother admitted that there was a little bit of shock at first.

She has become quickly aware that the office of queen is more than the Fogueres celebrations and that she will be representing Jávea throughout 2012 and into 2013 as well. "A queen represents the people with pride and poise at all times," she said. "What have [my colleagues] seen in me? Well, I don't know, but I guess it's simplicity."

But, despite the daunting prospect of being such a prominent representative, Ángela says that she is looking forward to her responsibilities and, of course, to the celebrations of the Fogueres 2012 themselves. "The Pregón [the official proclamation that starts the festivities] is one of the events that I anticipate with most enthusiasm," she said, adding that the Nit del Focs is always a magical night. But she admits that she can't decide which is her absolute favourite part of the fiesta: "I can't decide because they are all my favourites!"

Source: Fogueres Xàbia