Rotorua, March 8, 2015. Invited by the Chairman of the Festival Committee Sponsor Cuba-New Zealand, Mr. Petera Hudson, Cuba's ambassador Maria del Carmen Herrera Caseiro formally opened the event, which featured a large audience, which included traditional Maori representatives (Te Arawapeople), local authorities, Cuban residents, sponsors and the general public.
In his words, the Cuban diplomat highlighted the richness of the culture of his country, emphasizing the significance of the Festival, the biggest event of music and dance Cuban taking place in New Zealand, as an important contribution to strengthening cultural links and of relations between the two countries and peoples. "the Festival is a unique cultural experience that invites all involved to learn more about Cuba," said the representative of the Caribbean island.
In thanking the organizers of the event, the Ambassador of Cuba praised the dedication shown by the group of Cubans living in New Zealand and Australia to share their passion for culture, dance and Cuban music making this Festival a popular event and successful.
The official opening ceremony was followed by a lively show featuring Cuban art Cuban residents who shared the stage with local artists and captivated the large audience with their dances to the rhythm of Cuban music. The culmination of the function was the merger of the Maori and Cuban cultures in a contemporary dance piece performed by Cuban Israel Ortiz Castellanos and Greydis Montero Liranza with children and Maori artists.
Concluded the show, those present enjoyed the music and Cuban dance, also with the animation of the participants Cubans.
Moreover, during his stay enRotorua, Ambassador of Cuba held a friendly meeting with the Mayor of the city, Hon Steve Chadwick Ms., and exchanged with other local authorities and representatives of the Maori community..; and he visited several places of interest. He accompanied on his visit the counselor of the Embassy Manuel Sanchez Oliva.
