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When you first start learning Cuban dance - it's usually Rueda. You may play with Cha Cha Cha next; your teacher may throw in some Rumba or Son or Afro-Cuban.
Then you get to a festival and there are all these Afro-Cuban options! Which workshop will you enjoy?
This post is a rough outline of each - so you can tap the meaning as you work through the movements in class.
All credit to Justine Harvey.
Elegua - Let’s start this journey!
Join Vivio Ramos Mediaceja, from The Cuban Groove, for an inspiring Afro-Cuban dance workshop that honours Elegua, the Orisha of crossroads and opportunities, and welcomes everyone to Salsa Tumbao 2024.
Elegua is the guardian of paths and the opener of doors, and the perfect dance to begin this celebration
of Cuban culture.
This workshop introduces dancers to the rich symbolism, rhythms, and gestures that embody Elegua’s spirit through dynamic footwork and expressive body movements, guiding participants through the joy, balance and mystery he brings.
Changüí - The Dance of Guantánamo
Originating from Guantánamo in southeastern Cuba, Changüí is the lively predecessor to modern Cuban son and salsa.
Known for its syncopated rhythms, call-and-response vocals, and improvisational spirit, Changüí captures the essence of Cuba’s rich cultural heritage.
In this workshop, Armando and Cele from Club de Baile will guide you through the energetic and playful movements that characterise Changüí, with a focus on its rhythmic intricacies and infectious charm.
Perfect for dancers of all levels, this session blends tradition with joy, offering a deep dive into the steps and spirit of this iconic style.
Embracing the Storm: Oya in Motion
Step into the whirlwind energy of Oya, the Orisha of winds, storms, and transformation in this Afro-Cuban dance workshop, led by Kate Maguire from Salsa Agua in Tauranga.
Known as a fierce and powerful force of nature, Oya embodies change, strength, and feminine power.
Kate will lead you through the fluid, sweeping movements and dramatic turns that reflect Oya’s connection to the elements. You’ll explore the symbolism behind the gestures and how to express Oya’s commanding presence through dance.
This workshop will challenge your creativity, deepen your understanding of Afro-Cuban traditions, and inspire you to channel Oya’s fearless essence!
Sacred Movements: Dance the Palo
Step into the sacred world of Palo, a powerful Afro-Cuban dance style that embodies connection, strength, and reverence for nature.
Rooted in the spiritual traditions of the Congo, this workshop explores the connection between dance, drumming, and the ancestral energy
that defines Palo.
Pablo Salas from Nelson Son Dance & Entertainment will guide you through Palo’s grounded, earthy movements, emphasising rhythm, posture, and the symbolic gestures that reflect its deep cultural and spiritual significance.
Designed for dancers of all levels, this session invites you to tap into your inner strength, embrace the rhythms of the drum, and to honour the profound traditions of the Congo.
From Earth to Rhythm - Discover Arara
Join Rafael Ferrer Noel. from Cuban Fusion in Wellington. to discover the spirit of Arará.
This vibrant dance comes from the Afro-Haitian communities of Cuba, mainly in Matanzas and Havana, whose roots lay n modern day Benin, Africa. Arará symbolises transformation and retention, and embodies a unique blend of strength, fluidity, and dynamic energy.
In this workshop, you will bring Arará’s energy to life with dances that incorporate steps that slaves used while working on Cuba’s coffee plantations and sugar cane fields. You will learn earthy, grounded steps and rhythmic combinations, with intricate footwork, expressive body isolations, and infectious drum patterns.
Suitable for dancers of all levels, this session invites you to feel the pulse of the drums and celebrate the power of Afro-Cuban culture.
Ogun & Chango - Dances of Warriors and Fire
Get ready to learn a powerful duo of Afro-Cuban dances as we explore Chango and Ogun with Vivio Ramos Mediaceja from The Cuban Groove.
In this workshop, you will explore the electrifying energy of Chango, the Orisha of thunder, fire and passion, who embodies strength, charisma and the primal forces of rhythm and dance. Learn Chango’s powerful movements, often seen in Timba freestyle dance. Then, discover the raw power of Ogun, the orisha of iron, metalwork, war, labour and, also, the spirit of rum and rum-making.
Ogun’s intense, grounded movements embody the spirit of hard work, discipline, strength and protection. Learn to express the grounding energy of this ancient warrior spirit, and celebrate Ogun’s protective energy to discover your own inner strength.
The traditions surrounding the Orishas are fascinating. Definitely worth doing a little more reading if you want to enhance your sabor.
Whichever you choose - remember to have fun!
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