Around the World with Marlon Int'l - Cuba!

http://www.rootsofsalsa.com/

Last summer, I had the chance of a lifetime to participate in a dance and music research program arranged by Marazul, a travel agency providing U.S. approved Cuban travel arrangements.

The AMAZING program schedule included residencies with professional performing companies to learn more about local dances, music, history and specialized training techniques.

Major highlights included site visits to youth programs and mental health facilities using music and dance in their methodology and program approach.

Children performing at an arts theatre in Matanzas

I  work for Dancing Classrooms, a non-profit organization offering dance training in the New York public school system. 

Also, I am a salsa instructor. It is a life dream to explore the elements that have contributed so exquisitely and fundamentally to this sensation called “salsa.”

Plaza in Havana

When I first set out into the streets of Cuba, I felt the richness of the culture, the energy of the people, and their passion for the arts.


It was fascinating to witness the depth to which dance and music is intrinsic to their lifestyle.

The direct connection between Cuba and Africa is preserved by the maintenance of dialects, culture, tradition, religion, dance and music.

Imagine walking into history – standing on the street and watching automobiles from the 1950s driving around almost in pristine condition!

Despite the standard of living (it is not an entire island of disrepair - nor is there only one standard of living), the people are very giving of themselves even when they don't have very much.

There are beautiful areas and many people who do very well for themselves.

My first experience was with a dance company that specialiced in AfroCuban Dance and the Orishas (spiritual elements contributing to style), took place in a nondescript building in Havana.

We climbed the steps to the 2nd floor and walked into a simple, multi-purpose room. Musicians were standing by, ready to breathe life into the rhythms and dance styles we were about to experience.

It was exciting to watch the dancers give of their craft.

Damian explaining the rhythms and demonstrating his technique.

Damian was my friend and escort to various spots to experience the salsa nightlife.

He is a band leader, dance instructor, percussionist and music teacher with Danza Chevere.

We were taken to amazing house parties and local cafes where we could experience the unique Cuban salsa music and dancing.

Cabaret Continental

Nightclubs such as the Tropicana and Cabaret Continental are very expensive and mostly serve tourists. But, these places offer the extremely talented local musicians and dancers a venue to perform.

We went many places but my favorites were Club 1830 and Danza Chevere Locale.  

Going to these clubs is a true luxury for the locals and we felt priviledged to be able particpate.

The local DJs played more Cuban style salsa music and timba than in the States.

Our experience was made even more awesome by the frequency of live music in cafes, outdoor plazas, hotels and clubs.

Most of these musicians are very talented and even a small band in a little cafe would be very good.

Arts & Craft Fair in Havana

The arts are highly celebrated in Cuba. There is a very real emphasis on cultural education.

Families have the option to send children to specialty schools.

When a child is a late bloomer - they aren't told that it is too late. This kind of limitation does not exist in this culture - they can take it up at a later date.






The biggest difference between salsa in America and Cuba seems to be in the way people learn.

In America we learn in dance studios and nightclub pre-party lessons.


But in Cuba it is very much a part of the culture - they just grow up with it!

House Party in Havana.

Being an American in Cuba may not be what people think or expect.

I didn’t notice anti-American propaganda or a negative attitude.

Since many Cubans have relatives in America, they get a bit of tourism and are able to form a positive view.

The people were focused more on what is going on in their own world and their own value system.






Director of Okan Laroye
(Reviewed Folkloric Songs)

One of my most memorable experiences was learning first-hand about the unique dance style called "Cuban Contemporary" which we were introduced to by Danza Contemporanea de Cuba.

Another was experiencing choral responses and singing the AfroCuban songs.

I will never forget sitting in the Malecon and watching how people spend their evenings.

Varadero Beach

A dear friend who was studying in Cuba passed away before I could visit and share their salsa experience. 

But her spirit remained in the heartbeat of Cuba which - I am sure - I shared in every step of this journey.

Leaving Cuba was very bittersweet.

I loved it but I missed America.

While we were at the airport waiting for the torrential thunderstorms and downpour to subside, I felt ever so blessed to experience the richness of Cuba.







I was happy to bring home a little piece of Cuba in my heart and soul.