CubaPLUS Magazine

Call it dance or dance, Cubans have always had a proverbial passion for this genre of arts and culture, considered an extension of their spiritual being and a root expression of their nationality. That is why this April 29, International Dance Day, takes them immersed in the daily life and body movement to the beat of music in many different ways.

At a popular level we like to be proud that we dance even when walking, something that is thought to be more emphasized by Cuban women. And when drums, clave, maracas, guitars, tres and güiros lie, well, the celebration or guateque is almost ready in less than the crowing of a rooster. And almost all move the skeleton, because there are very few of the so-called "patones" among ours, although many of them like to die trying.

It should be added that from the second half of the 20th century until now, schools, academies and community work aimed at teaching dance and other arts throughout the national territory were promoted throughout the country. A beautiful, persevering story that promoted talents, prestigious institutions and stars that today shine in the dance firmament.

No more do we have to take a look at our times, as well as at the roots. These days the face-to-face actions of the clubs or casino wheels that operate in various parts of the country are increasing. Sanitary protection measures through. Also family and friends parties.

The National Ballet of Cuba, after a beautiful tour of several provinces of the country, very recently, shows innovative presentations at the National Theater, among them the piece The Shape of Red, by the dancer and choreographer Elis Regina Hernández.

The Historic Center of the Cuban capital vibrates with the Old Havana Festival, City in motion, after two years of recess due to the pandemic. The promoter of the meeting, the choreographer Isabel Bustos, founder of the Compañía Retazos, the protagonist there, trusts in the revival of these shows, although they still do not have the usual reach.

Other companies such as Contemporary Dance from Cuba, Banrrarás, from Guantánamo, the French Tumba and Acosta Danza are sounding strong these days, with powerful and avant-garde techniques that place us at a world level.