Univision ‘Noche de Carnaval 2001’.

“Noche de Carnaval 2001” kept thousands of cheering fans clapping and dancing nonstop from the initial seconds through the last minute of the show. Puerto Rican star Elvis Crespo, this year’s king of Carnaval and a singing sensation who continues to captivate millions of people with his music, style and peculiar voice, headed the long list of big stars who appeared at Miami’s majestic “American Airlines Arena.” This colorful musical event full of big surprises is one of the most awaited in the “Carnaval Miami” celebration, which year after year goes all out to bring together numerous international celebrities performing on the same stage.

Julio Sabala, “the inimitable imitator,” emceed the big event, accompanied by Karla Martínez, host of Univision’s teen show “Control,” who contributed her beauty and charm to this unforgettable evening. And to add a different and spontaneous touch, Mexican comedians Huarachín y Huarachón brought their wit and good humor to the show.

Among the stars who shone on that magical night were Pedro Fernández, one of the most famous exponents of Mexican “ranchera” music, who surprised everyone with his provocative dance movements and received an enthusiastic ovation for his performance. “Golden Girl” Paulina Rubio, classified by the print media as the biggest musical phenomenon of the past year, was also one of the night’s big attractions; the Puerto Rican pop group “Son By Four” proved, once again, that it is still one of the public’s favorites; the dynamic Bolivian group “Azul Azul” had everyone dancing to their international hit “Bomba”; the legendary band “Puerto Rican Power,” with their hit “Cariñito,” filled the night with the sounds of salsa. Another artist who also pleased the audience with his personal touch and unique look was “El General.” In addition, the audience was treated to performances by Jerry Rivera, with a new style and repertoire that drove more than one young woman wild; and by the “OV 7” band, who sang their international hit “Locura de Amor.” The beautiful and lively girls from Sparx, the charismatic merengue group “Ilegales” and, from Colombia, Juanes, also added their talents to this memorable event.