Raices Habaneras, often considered one of the greatest rumba groups of all time, was conceived over seven years ago with the objective of recapturing and preserving the essence of Cuban rhythm and passing that element of Cuban culture to new generations.
They will bring their spirit and talent to Queens Theatre in the Park Saturday, March 20, at 8 p.m. as part of the JP Morgan Chase Latino Cultural Series.
Their album, which was nominated for a 2003 Latin Grammy for Best Folkoric Album, captures the Afro-Cuban styles of Lukumi, Abakuá, Rumba Guagancó, Yambú, and Columbia with perfect authenticity.
Raices Habanares is comprised of talented musicians, singers, and dancers, such as: David Oquendo, Vicente Sanchez, Ogduardo “Roman” Diaz, Gene Golden, Clemente Medina, Pedro Pablo Martinez, Ricky Salas, Carlos Cordova, Jose “El Chino” Real, Frank Bell, Pedor Domech, Rita Macias, and Xiomara Rodriguez.
They have been showcased in HBO’s “OZ” and the documentary films “The Cuban Americans,” “How to Create a Rumba,” and “Dame La Mano.”
Other events in the JP Morgan Chase Latino Cultural Series include:
Ruandi
Saturday, April 10, at 2 p.m.
A wonderful play for children, set on a Cuban sugar plantation. Follow the adventures of the young boy as he travels through a magical forest filled with giant, colorful puppets. This is a Spanish language play written by Gerrado Fulleda Leon. Free (Reservations are required)
Flores Argentina
Saturday, May 1, at 2 p.m.
The groundbreaking Inca Rose Duo (Annelise Skovmand & Pablo González Jazey) performs the traditional songs and sensual tangos of Argentina. Free (Reservations are required)
Women’s Secrets
Saturday, May 1, at 8 p.m.
A delicious comedy about the lives of three women as portrayed by three men: Franco Galencia, Emyliano Santa Cruz and Camilo Prada. Adapted and directed by Edison Carrera. Performed in Spanish.
