The Cuban province of Matanzas will host from April 17 to 22 the international ballroom dancing championship, a bridge of connection and cultural exchange between the United States and Cuba, organizers said today.
We are very excited to continue this project, Cuban choreographer and former dancer Ana Llorente told Prensa Latina, speaking also on behalf of Emmanuel Pierre-Antoine, ballroom dancing champion in the United States, and Michael Chapman, Broadway choreographer and producer.
Based in the city of Atlanta, Llorente recalled that first meeting in 2016 that constituted a "wonderful experience in which some 150 people participated in Havana in a competitive exercise and what it meant in terms of cultural exchange."
In announcing the event, the organizers considered that the Cuba International Ballroom Championships "transcends from being simply an art form; it is a powerful means of cultural expression."
This type of competition allows to enhance the vibrancy of "the rich traditions of Cuban dance and the dynamic styles of Latin, American and European ballroom dancing," Llorente said.
He explained that a variety of programs, workshops, events and collaborations will be held because "the goal is to unite continents, unite communities and create a harmonious dance experience that transcends borders."
Structured as a combination of competition, dance summit, clinics and workshops, the event will not only facilitate interaction between Cuban and foreign dancers, but will encourage active participation in workshops together.
The Championship attracts participants from around the world, with a predominant presence from the United States, he added.
"Professional and amateur dancers, world dance champions, competition adjudicators, choreographers, Cuban dancers and professional companies converge to share knowledge and contribute to the success of this unique experience," underlined the call on social networks.
Personally, for Ana Llorente to return to Cuba with this competition -although she had editions after 2016, but none with the dimensions of this one that is now being prepared-, will be like making a dream come true.