Cuban Folkloric Dance
Learn traditional Cuban folkloric dance from a true master! José Carrión was the principal dancer and corps professor of Ballet Folklórico Cutumba de Santiago de Cuba. He will be teaching a variety of Afro-Cuban and Afro-Haitian dances including Orishas, Rumba, Arará, Yuka, Makuta, Palo, Gagá and Vodú. The classes will be accompanied by live percussion and are open to students of all levels. José brings to Seattle the opportunity to experience the richness of the Cuban culture through music and dance. To register for this course, please call or visit: ASUW Experimental College at (206)616-5192 or http://exco.org
General Public: $90 -- UW Students: $85
Please note: all course fees are in addition to the registration fee of $10 (general public) or $5 (UW students).
Jose Carrion
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José Carrión was the principal dancer and corps professor of Ballet Folklórico Cutumba de Santiago de Cuba. Born in Santiago de Cuba, he began his career as a professional dancer when he was invited to join the Cutumba in 1980 at the age of 17. After only 3 years of hard work, José was recognized as a “primer bailarín.” The following year, in 1984, after an evaluation by a national panel of Cuba’s most distinguished specialists in music and dance, José was honored with the title of professor and specialist in Cuban dance. In 1999, after almost 20 years of being a soloist for the dance troupe, José became Cutumba’s principal dancer.

Over the years, multi-talented José has also contributed to Cutumba as a choreographer, percussionist and researcher. As a professor, Jose has trained generations of dancers - many of whom still perform with Cutumba, others who continue their work as dancers abroad. Besides teaching professionals, José has a tremendous amount of experience working with children and young adults. He has taught extensively in Cuba’s school system in the primary schools, high schools and universities. José has also brought the joy of music and dance to children with special needs.

José has traveled extensively, teaching & performing in many different countries including England, Scotland, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, Mexico, New Zealand, Guadeloupe & Martinique, Surinam and Canada.
After 25 years of researching & presenting the folkloric manifestations of Afro-Franco-Haitian-Cuban origin found primarily in Cuba's Eastern (Oriente) provinces, José has retired from Cutumba. In April 2005, he moved to Seattle where he currently co-directs the Academy of Cuban Folklore & Dance.

The Academy of Cuban Folklore & Dance welcomes the participation of all who are interested in learning about Cuban dance & music regardless of age, gender or experience. More information at www.cubanfolkloricdance.com

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