Last week, I (Andrea) headed up to the historic city of Boston for the first edition of the Boston Cuban Dance Festival. It was such a joy to experience Boston and dance. So grateful to have spent time with amazing people as the 2023 festival season comes to a close. This week I dive into my experience at the festival.
What was Included?
A full pass included:
- Access to 10 hours of workshops (4 instructors total)
- Live performance by local band Timba Messengers
- Tunes spun by Timba Titan at Saturday and Sunday night party
- 3 night parties
Additionally there was:
- FREE Rolling Rueda on the Freedom Trail.
- AFTERPARTIES!!
My favorite part?
The Sunday night party was so much fun. I definitely had some amazing dances. Plus the tunes were off the charts amazing (Timba Titan has my heart).
Honorary mention to the Leche de Tigre (if you know you know) I had in Boston.
Area of Improvement?
I wish the socials would have been a little later, they were a little early in the night with all of them starting at either 7:30 or 8pm. Slightly later socials, I feel, allow people to rest a bit after classes and have dinner without a rush.
Overall Takeaways
Huge thanks to the organizers for all your hard work. Boston is a beautiful city to visit and a backdrop for a festival. Planning a rolling Rueda on the historic Freedom Trail was a great way to showcase Boston. It was clear that you all wanted to provide a quality educational experience alongside a party experience. Two instructors (Ramses Sariol and Sassan Ito) based outside of the US were brought in, which is always a great opportunity for us US Casineros who can’t always travel internationally. In addition, they brought (Daybert Linares and Jonathan Burke) who bring a tremendous amount of knowledge and skill with them. Also, the inclusion of Timba Titan and the band Timba Messengers showed how much they wanted Cuban music to be enjoyed and highlighted. I am always a sucker for some live music, and was glad to see local talent being highlighted.
I’d like to personally shout-out José Barretto for reaching out to me. It made me feel really special, especially since he has been an important community leader in the United States who I have a lot of respect for.
The music from each night just put me in the best mood. I had so much fun with all the familiar faces in the community, and had the best time with you all. Everyone in Boston was so welcoming and fun! The socials were fantastic. But, this weekend would not have been possible without Casa de la Timba (if you know you know) which hosted the afterparties.
Keep and eye out for Boston Cuban Dance Festival and 2024. It is definitely a great time and well thought out in what it aims to provide attendees. Are you looking to travel more for dance? Check out our travel page! Plus, we just got an instagram and facebook, so check those out too.
Bueno…ya tu sabes.
Ya Tu Sabes 