United Rythms 2. Afro-Cuban Workshop

United Rhythm 2. Afro-Dance Workshop Schedule

Time

Activity

Description

6:00 pm – 6:50 pm

Dynamic Stretching & Activation

Warm-up and activation using the rhythm of the Batá drums. Focus on movement, energy, and body alignment. Orisha Obatala:

Obatalá is one of the most important Orishas in the Yoruba religion and Afro-Cuban tradition. Known as the Orisha of peace, purity, and wisdom, Obatalá is believed to be the creator of humanity—shaping people from clay with patience and care. Obatalá represents clarity, justice, and calm decision-making, and is often seen as a parental figure who guides people toward balance and harmony.

In Afro-Cuban dance, Obatalá’s movements reflect these qualities:

• Slow, smooth, and flowing gestures
• Motions that show grace, wisdom, and serenity
• Arms often lifted or extended, symbolizing protection and blessing

Obatalá’s colors are white and silver, representing purity. His dances invite reflection, peace, and an elevated spiritual presence. When we dance Obatalá, we honor serenity, dignity, and the deep ancestral roots of Afro-Cuban spirituality.

6:50 pm – 7:00 pm (Break)

7:00 pm – 7:50 pm Babalu Aye:

Babalú Ayé is a powerful and deeply respected Orisha associated with healing, health, illness, and recovery. In the Yoruba tradition and Afro-Cuban religion, he is known as the protector of the sick and the one who brings relief and restoration. Because of this, many devotees turn to Babalú Ayé for strength during difficult times, for physical healing, and for spiritual cleansing.

• Grounded, weighted movements
• Gestures of pain, struggle, or physical limitation
• Motions of healing, wiping away illness, or lifting burdens
• Rhythms that move between suffering and hope

His colors are purple, brown, and sometimes burlap tones, and his symbols include crutches, dogs, and the power of transformation through hardship.

Dancing Babalú Ayé connects participants to themes of resilience, healing, humility, and gratitude—honoring a spiritual force that guides people from suffering toward restoration.

7:50 pm – 8:00 pm (Break)

8:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Social Dance / Rueda de Casino

Rueda de Casino is a vibrant Cuban dance style performed in a circle, in which couples dance together following calls from a leader. Each move has a name, and all dancers execute the same step at the same time, creating a fun, synchronized, and dynamic group experience.

Originating in Havana in the 1950s, Rueda de Casino blends Afro-Cuban movement, partner work, rhythm, and playful interaction. The dance is known for:

• Quick transitions and coordinated turns
• Frequent partner changes
• A lively sense of community and teamwork
• Joyful expression and Caribbean energy

Rueda is not just a dance—it’s a celebration of Cuban culture, social connection, and musicality. When we dance Rueda de Casino, we connect with tradition, rhythm, and each other, creating a circle of movement that is both powerful and fun.

A dynamic combination of Afro-Cuban orisha dance steps with the modern rhythm of Cuban Timba (salsa).

Payment Options ($40.00 in advance / $60.00 at the door)

Organizer Information (webpage: afro-cubanunited.org/program)

Afro-Cuban United Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving Afro-Cuban and Afro-Latin cultural heritage in Chicago. EIN: 39-2577534

We are located at the following address:
The Menomonee Club - Drucker Center

1535 N. Dayton St.
Chicago, IL 60642

Please enter through the parking lot at the corner of Dayton/Blackhawk St. under the red awning in the back of the lot. If you have any trouble finding us, feel free to call us at +17028310012.