dvd description
2 DVDs
video type: instructional & demonstration
dance level: beginning-intermediate
time: 92 Minutes
language: Spanish descriptions / English voiceover
filmed in Santiago de Cuba

This DVD set contains detailed instruction on the rumba dance forms yambú & guaguancó in addition to demonstrations and performances with members of Ballet Folklórico Cutumba. José Carrión shares with the viewers the methodology he has used as a professor in Cuba to train generations of dancers.

Appropriate for all levels. Those who never danced before now have the opportunity to learn from a master. Those who already have experience can enhance their technique & develop new skills.

special features
• information on the cultural significance of the dances
• breakdown of proper posture, torso, arm, and footwork
• men's moves / women's moves
• basic steps for yambú
• moving from side to side, front and back, and circles
• instruction for dancing as an old man in yambú
• differences between yambú and guaguancó
• scarf-work for women
• arm movement for guaguancó
• explaination of the "vacunao" and vacunao moves for men and women
• variations on guaguancó steps
• rumba dance demonstrations
• rumba performances by Ballet Folklórico Cutumba

José Alfredo Carrión
Born in Santiago de Cuba, José began his career as a professional dancer when he was invited to join the Ballet Folklórico Cutumba in 1980 at the age of 17. In 1999, after almost 20 years of being a soloist for the dance troupe, José became Cutumba’s principal dancer. Over the years, José has also contributed to Cutumba as a choreographer, percussionist and professor, training generations of dancers.

José has traveled extensively during his years with Cutumba and has performed and given workshops in many different countries including England, Scotland, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, Mexico, New Zealand, Guadeloupe & Martinique, Surinam, Canada and the US.

After 25 years of researching, collecting, conserving, revitalizing & presenting the folkloric manifestations of Afro-Franco-Haitian-Cuban origin found primarily in Cuba's Eastern (Oriente) provinces, José has retired from Cutumba. In April 2005, he moved to Seattle, Washington, USA where he and his wife Naomi currently co-direct the Academy of Cuban Folklore and Dance.

view movie clip

rumba demonstration

performance with
Ballet Folklórico Cutumba