Cienfuegos, known as the pearl of the south is a major port on the south side of Cuba. It has a population of 165k and was so named in 1829 after José Cienfuegos, a then Captain General of Cuba, although it bears the same name as the much later revolutionary hero Camillo Cienfuegos. The name itself means 100 fires. The first non-native settlers here were French immigrants from Bordeaux and Louisiana, and French names persist in some old streets.
View of Cienfuegos from the harbour. We got to have a great walk around this town.
We had to stand at the door to get this shot of the foyer of this important governement buidling. The guard was apologetic but firm.
The scene of one of the musical perforamnces we enjoyed in Cienfuegos.
This acapella group perform without accompanyment or amplification and amazed us with the purity of their sounds. They even treated us to one song in English!
We were in and out of Cienfuegos a number of times, and had opportunities to walk the town, both in a group and independently, and (attempt to) talk to some of the locals. We had been encouraged to try this, despite our lack of Spanish, as part of our people to people obligations. Almost everyone we talked to was friendly and tolerant of our incapacity. There can be no doubt that a fair majority of Cuban locals see the thawing of relations with USA as a positive thing.
Our lunch spot this day in Cienfuegos.
Lazaro translates as the principal explains Korimakao, a government funded art school. The performers here are paid professionals, not students.
Mural at Korimakao. This model appears in many works we saw, and may be a member of the community.
The talented guitarist on the right lead and inspired his group with heartfelt compositions and vocals.
A spirited dance troup were moving far too fast for the camera, as more performers wait in the wings.
But the theme was decidely revolutionary!
And exposure to Cuban art and culture remains a recurring theme in Lindblads people to people plan. In Cienfuegos alone, we enjoyed at least three different short concerts presented by sometimes children, sometimes professional adults, but all talented and willing. Most of these troupes received significant government support, but always appreciated our or Lindblad's contributions.
Here, the principal of the (singer) Benny Moré Escuela de Arte introduces one of many very talented young classical musicians.
Student's work was exhibited but it belongs to the state. Only professors can sell their work, and they tried, with some success.
One student sketching a portrait from a phone image, and others giving him a hard time in this visual arts class.
This student spoke to us confidently, and then went onto her English class.
From what we have learned, Fidel Casto and other revolutionary leaders, not to mention independence hero José Martí in the previous century, were all enthusiastic about art and music - this no doubt goes a long way to explain the apparent national obsession with art, and the obvious talent and training of the participants we have seen. Creative talent seems to be one excellent way out of Cuban poverty.
Truly stunning musical play presented by a talented troupe of very well drilled children.
The young performers in this troupe were absolute naturals!
This spendid Moorish hotel hosted us for sunset drinks on the roof.
Yet another band sent to entertain us, but also keen to sell their CDs.
Sunset mohitos in Cienfuegos.
A visit to the Cienfuegos Elephants ballpark demonstrated that Cubans are baseball tragics, made rather more tragic because they can't compete with their heros in USA leagues, and the regime has banned professional competition. A coach spoke to us, and told us about the local game - our peer expeditioners, rather more expert in baseball, asked lots of questions.
Statue outside the ballpark of the Cienfuegos Elephants.
No comments:
Post a Comment