10 Years: Preserving a priceless heritage
This festival is the culmination of a lifetime’s work devoted to sharing the profound heritage of Afro-Cuban dance and music. This rich folkloric tradition forms the very foundation of nearly all modern Cuban music and dance. In today’s fast-paced world, with the pervasive influence of phones, social media, hip hop, and reggaeton, the number of Cubans deeply immersed in folkloric dance is diminishing. We stand as a dedicated minority, and this festival is our vital answer to that challenge.
Led by the legendary Domingo Pau, alongside his network of friends, family, students, and the Conjunto Folklórico Nacional de Cuba, we have meticulously crafted an event that acts as a true cultural transplant of Afro-Folkloric traditions. We understand that a deep connection sparked at other festivals needs dedicated growth. Recognising the extraordinary potential of Luanda and her father in Cuba, and the passion already ignited worldwide, we realised the time was right.
We saw the need for a festival wholly dedicated to Afro-Cuban dance culture. Driven by passion and deep knowledge, we embarked on this annual journey. Our festival is designed to empower anyone interested in learning more, providing an essential foundation for teachers, individuals, and dance group leaders. Join us in this crucial mission: your participation is the force that helps this vital cultural seed grow into a magnificent representation of Cuban dance and music.
Born in Havana, Cuba, in 1976, Luanda is a powerhouse of Afro-Cuban dance with 31 years of professional experience as a dancer, teacher, and choreographer. Her journey began at the prestigious National School of Art of Cuba (ENA), where she graduated in 1994 as a dancer and folk dance teacher. Her exceptional talent was recognised early, earning her a First Level Choreographer Certificate from the Cuban Ministry of Culture in 2001, followed by a Certificate of Direction, Screenplay, and Artistic Production in 2002. Further solidifying her pedagogical expertise, she obtained a Diploma in Popular and Cultural Education for Children and Adults in France in 2010.
Luanda’s performance career is equally illustrious. For eight years, she graced stages as a soloist with the Conjunto Folklorico Nacional de Cuba, showcasing her mastery of traditional forms. Her artistry has since captivated audiences at countless festivals and artistic events across Cuba, Europe, America, and Africa, demonstrating her global impact. Most recently, she lent her expertise as a creator choreographer at the Paradise Under the Stars Tropicana Show at The Lost Estate, a testament to her enduring relevance in the performing arts.
Now based in London, Luanda remains deeply passionate about her cultural heritage. She dedicates herself to its authentic development by organising and teaching a wide array of masterclasses and workshops. She’s also a driving force behind numerous UK and international events, all aimed at broadening awareness and understanding of Afro-Cuban culture and heritage outside of Cuba. Her influence extends to significant institutions, as she has served as artistic programmer manager & community artistic programming and dance educator for the Carlos Acosta Dance Centre/Foundation and works as a freelancer for Sadler’s Wells Theatre.
Looking ahead, Luanda is embarking on an exciting new venture: collaborating with Simon to bring the Afro Cuban Dance Festival to London. This ambitious project is currently in its careful planning stages, seeking a dedicated logistical team and key sponsors to bring this vibrant celebration to life.
Luanda Pau is a dynamic force with over 30 years of experience as a teacher, dancer, and choreographer. Her international presence effortlessly bridges the gap between Cuban and European cultures. Multilingual and deeply passionate, Luanda continually develops projects that contribute to global cultural exchange and development.
As one of the first Capoeira Masters outside of Brazil, His exploration of Afro-Cuban dance has been pivotal in developing Rhythmic Rope Flow and gaining profound insights into the foundational ways we move. Beyond his passion for movement, Simon is a 2009 graduate of the School of Social Entrepreneurs and a devoted father.
