Cuban☆Fusion

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RAFAEL from CUBAN☆FUSION is a passionate dance instructor.

For Salsa Tumbao 2024 he is teaching a Cuban Salsa Partnerwork workshop on Saturday. This multi-talented instructor is also teaching an Afro Cuban workshop - focusing on the Bantu style - Arara.

This is a style from Southern Africa - so it resonates with me!

Ke Lo Ke is playing at the Salsa Tumbao 2024 party - and Rafael is the man behind the incredible rhythms we'll dance to.

I spoke to Rafael about sabor and coffee.

First and foremost, how do you take your coffee?

"First thing in the morning. Short and black, no sugar."

Rafael Ferrer Noel was born in Cuba on the eve of Carnival, which means he has dancing and drumming in his blood.

From winning “best male performer” at his first international dance festival at age 10, he went on to compete and perform all over Cuba, including at the renowned Festival del Caribe in Santiago de Cuba and Teatro Nacional de Habana.

Cubans speak of sabor (flavour) when they talk about dancing. When and how did you find your own personal style in dance?

"Like cooking, flavour development takes time. It comes from within and is guided by the music."

Specialising in Afro-Cuban and Afro-Haitian dance, Rafael worked as a professional dancer and choreographer in Havana before emigrating to
New Zealand in 2005 where he founded CUBAN☆FUSION, New Zealand's leading Cuban dance and music company.

A regular at congresses and festivals in New Zealand and Australia, Rafael is famous for his high energy fun teaching style, dynamic performances and signature big smile. It’s not uncommon to find him teaching workshops during the day, performing in the shows at night and playing in the bands afterwards.

Describe a move that you love / that is part of your typical style?

"To be honest, I love dancing the basic moves as it leaves more time to focus on enjoying the music."

Rafael’s dance talent is based on a sound understanding of musicality.

Rafael is a highly sought after percussionist, performing in a wide range of bands from Afro Roots to Jazz in addition to playing in his very own Afro-Cuban jazz bands MafereFUN Yemayá and AfroKan, as well his Cuban Duo Madera Fina and Sexteto Son de Cuba.

What tips do you have for students who are still trying to find their own sabor?

Just relax and focus on feeling the music.

What elements of dance add flavour / style to Cuban dance?

Definitely Afro Roots.

Rafael is looking forward to being part of this very special festival and sharing his knowledge of and passion for Afro-Cuban dance, music and culture together with the other artists.

CUBAN☆FUSION is based in Wellington, where Rafael teaches a variety of Cuban dance classes - everything from Rumba to Cubatón and Rueda. During summer CUBAN☆FUSION organises outdoor socials on the waterfront - which look amazing!

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