SVG celebrates ‘Day of the Cuban Culture’

Local government officials, along with members of the public and Venezuelan community, once again joined in solidarity with the Cuban people, this time to celebrate ‘Day of the Cuban Culture’.{{more}}

Well wishers gathered at the Venezuelan Embassy on Wednesday, October 20, where they were entertained by a short film from Cuban filmmaker Consuelo Ramirez Enriquez, artist Jorge Zalidivar Romero and Vincentian musician Ken Isles, in recognition of the anniversary of the day.

In his first official act since taking up duties as new Cuban ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, His Excellency Pablo Rodriguez Vidal indicated that culture and the arts are taken seriously in his country.

He noted that despite the US Blockade of his country, Cuban culture has had a far reaching effect around the world.

“Cuban culture becomes everyday more international. Cuban paintings are all over the world. Cuban music has been very famous internationally. The national Cuban ballet is considered among the best ballets all over the world.”

We have a Cuban film nominated for the Oscar prize. Cuban TV is also of the highest level. Our writers are in the first line, too.”

Ambassador Vidal said that he will do his best to increase the cooperation in culture between Cuba and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

He indicated that some discussions are already in place.

At the recently held KCCU National Dance Festival, the local Ministry of Culture hosted two Cuban dancers and one drummer who performed at the finals and conducted workshops in dance for groups and schools.

Last Thursday’s exhibition featured a 27 minute film by Ramirez Enriquez entitled ‘Emma Zunz’.

Ramirez Enriquez is also a storyteller, writer and television director who has written television and film scripts, two plays and documentaries.

Her work has received 21 awards at festivals in Cuba and abroad.

Romero entitled his painting exhibition ‘Comeback’, dedicated to his second visit to these shores.

The paintings were made mainly of sawdust and sand.

Romero has presented his works of art in his homeland, as well as Spain, Greece, Italy, Canada, Vietnam, Venezuela, Columbia, Ethiopia, the United States and others.(JJ)