History & Cultural Context
Lenten celebration with mobile musical bands, religious rituals, and dance; synthesis of carnival and religious practice.
More in Global Americas Indigenous & Colonial Fusion
Danza Azteca (Concheros)
Syncretic dance blending pre-Hispanic and Christian elements; performed since early colonial period with feathered regalia.
Baile Conquista
Dance-drama depicting Spanish conquest; performed in Guatemala and other Maya regions.
Capoeira
Martial art / dance / game combining kicks, acrobatics, and Kongo dance movements; blends African and Brazilian traditions.
Samba
Urban Rio dance form emphasizing individual expression and body isolation; syncopated African-influenced rhythms.
Tumba Francesa
Dance/music tradition brought by French Haitians of African descent; continues in Eastern Cuba.
Rumba (Yambú, Columbia, Guaguancó)
Three main styles with distinct rhythms and dance movements; originated from African slave traditions.
Son Cubano
Folk style blending Spanish guitar with African percussion; bedrock of Salsa music and Latin jazz.
Changüí
Eastern Cuban form of Son rooted in African music brought by slaves.
Mambo
Energetic dance with African-Cuban rhythms; major influence on Latin jazz and Salsa.
Cha-Cha-Cha
Cuban dance style with African influence; ballroom competition form.