Eleguá – Afro Cuban Workshop

The Orishas dances are a part of the Afro-Cuban Folklore dances. For many Cubans Orishas are much more than just a dance, it’s a religion and a culture. Orishas are the gods of the Yoruba/Santeria Religion (and a few more). Each of these gods looks a certain way, it has a story and a character. Religious ceremonies are a spectacle as the practitioners attempt to portray one of the Orishas through dancing it.

In addition to the story behind each Orisha, nine of them have a unique dance corresponding to unique musical incantations accompanied by special drum beats played on the Batá.

Eleguá is the Orishas that opens and closes all ways, all new starts, and all the ends. He has many faces, sometimes described as a childish trickster, and sometimes as a grown warrior. The Elegua dance has a lot of flow and much play between control and release.

Who is it for?

No previous experience is needed in any dance. That said, the Orishas dances tend to be more demanding in terms of body movement. While not required, at least six months of dance practice is recommended.

The Teacher

Lynet Rivero

Lynet Rivero Rubin from Havana Cuba. Master in Theoretical Studies of Dance & a Degree in Dance Art. She was a Choreographer, dancer, and artistic director in
Assistant Professor from 2006 to 2018 at the University of the Arts of Cuba. Choreographer, dancer, and artistic director with several theater groups in Cuban and around the world.