“You know, in order to have the full Cuban experience, we’re going to have to dance you into the hall.”
This is how my experience at the Cuban Pavilion began – twirling and salsa dancing my way with a volunteer into the hall. Now that’s how you introduce your guests to the culture! 😉
Cuban Pavilion
Venue: RBC Convention Centre – South Building, 3rd Floor (375 York Ave)
Dates: Sun. Aug 6th to Sat. August 12th
Late Night Party: Sun, Fri, & Sat – 11:00pm
** For a complete, updated listing of pavilions I have visited so far, please click here.
Cultural Display
The Cuban Pavilion has such a creative and cohesive cultural display. There are boards as you come in with information and facts about the country itself and its culture and arts. The biggest draw is the Cuban household scene they’ve set up, including typical Cuban kitchen along with an explanation for the things you can find in the home and why they’re used. For example, did you know that they don’t typically use ovens, so they use a pressure cooker instead.
From the Kitchen, you see what a typical porch/backyard area looks like, followed by a classic Cuban car that you can really see widely used in Cuba today.
Food
They have many food options at this pavilion, but don’t miss out on that mango cheesecake! For those attending the late night party and looking to also get some drinks, the classic mojito or Cuba Libre make for some great options as well.
Entertainment
This pavilion has some world class entertainment. They have flown in from Havana two up and coming musicals acts: Maikel Dinza and Los Soneros de la Juventud! These acts had amazing original music and were backed up by energetic dancers. They also had dancers flying in from other provinces to perform for this celebration of Cuban arts and culture. Let’s not forget Winnipeg’s very own Harold & Regan who were the 2015-16 Pro World Champions at Bachata dancing. They, and their dance group, perform the Cuban style of popular dances that have been on the rise for mainstream dancing in recent years. If you’re at this pavilion, I dare you to not dance in your seat. This pavilion was definitely a blast!
Above and Beyond
I appreciated the volunteers who offered to teach me about their cultural display, or explain the show that I was about it see. There was also a audience participation part, so you better believe that this girl was pulled on stage to dance with the group. This is the perfect pavilion to end your evening with – you will leave with a smile on your face from all the fun you had.
Congratulations again to the Cuban Pavilion for another successful run. Are you heading to the late night party? Connect with me and let me know!
** For a complete, updated listing of pavilions I have visited so far, please click here.
xoxo,
Judianne