In the Cuban religion of Santeria, the Orishas are the emissaries of Olodumare or God almighty. They rule over the forces of nature and the endeavors of humanity. They recognise themselves and are recognised through their different numbers and colors which are their marks, and each has their own favorite foods and other things which they like to receive as offerings and gifts. Each of the Orishas has a specific dance or set of movements and music associated with them.

Most of the dances are from the Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria These dances originate from Yoruba traditions imported by enslaved Africans into Cuba. These slaves were controlled by the spanish and were forced to speak Spanish and convert to Christianity. In order to preserve their native religious traditions, the slaves gave their African dieties the names of Christian saints and thus continued to worship them. This religion is known as Santeria, and under disguise, many religious rituals, dances and musical traditions from Africa were preserved. Santeria is still practised in Cuba today. Afro Cubano dance brings life to these Orishsas (saints) - Eleggua, Oggun, Oshun, Chango, Yemaya, Arara, Obatala, and many others.

Ariel is highly skilled and knowledgeable in these traditional Cuban dances, so don't miss this opportunity to learn from him.