Fausto Mata, known as Genaro, and Tony Pascual, who played Chelo, are two key figures from the beloved Dominican comedy "Sanky Panky." This week, they appeared on the podcast Destino Tolk to express their deep affection for their Cuban fans. "Puerto Rico loves us, but Cuba idolizes us," stated Chelo, highlighting how the movie spread rapidly across the island after someone brought it on a CD.
Genaro, who openly admits he doesn't support any of the governments, reminisced about a trip to Cuba he took years ago. It was organized by a non-profit for a speaking engagement that wanted one of the comedians from the film. "When I landed in Cuba with my little suitcase, wearing flip-flops and torn pants, I never expected to be recognized there. I was admiring the classic cars when suddenly someone took my suitcase and led me away from the line. Given the situation in Cuba, especially its political climate, I thought, 'Oh my God, what happened? I haven't said anything.' Then they told me, 'You're being awaited in a room,'" he recounted.
The comedian described the warm welcome he received and how people recognized him wherever he went, treating him with overwhelming affection. "I was wearing a red jacket, not knowing red was the color of the Revolution. I got lucky, at least I didn't pick an opposing color. I was just trying not to say anything because I was scared," Fausto shared.
Outside the Karl Marx Theater, he noted that many people wanted to see him, but he wasn't allowed to go out. Taking advantage of a moment of distraction, he managed to greet the crowd who showered him with hugs, photos, and even attention from journalists at the state-run publication Granma: "The next day, I made the front page."
"I was living a dream," he confessed, as he never anticipated receiving such warmth from the Cuban public. He also met Cuban comedian El Habanero and was astonished by his talent, telling him, "If you make it to Miami, you'll be a millionaire."
Fausto expressed a desire to return to Cuba with Tony Pascual for a trip they plan themselves, avoiding any political affiliations, purely to connect with the people. "We love all Cubans because they love us. We don't engage in politics," Chelo asserted.