havana in fashion

magazine
HAVANA
IN FASHION
MAY
INCLUDING GUIDE TO THE BEST PLACES TO EAT, DRINK, DANCE AND STAY IN HAVANA
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EDITORIAL
May is a real tough month for culture vultures in Havana. Put quite simply, there is not enough
time—too many things to do, places to go. There is definitely something for everyone this month.
Cuba is celebrating its 9th Jornada Cubana Contra la Homofobia from May 10 to May 21, coinciding
with the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT) on May 17. Not to miss
is the colorful and lively traditional gay parade to the beat of conga drums that will start out on the
Malecón and will continue along Calle 23 down to Pabellón Cuba.
May is a month packed with various cultural activities: Cubadisco, the Cuban version of the Grammys,
will shake things up from May 14 to 22 while Mayo Teatral, the Latin American and Caribbean
Theater Season, is a real highlight for fans of the performing arts.
A high spotlight in May is the French Culture Month with an all-encompassing program of music,
theater, visual arts, dance, architecture, design and film events. And the French Cinema Festival,
created back in 1997, has become an important festival recognized not only in Cuba and France, but
internationally as well.
The House of Chanel is presenting “Obra en Proceso/Work in Progress,” an unseen-before
photography exhibition by its head designer and creative director, Karl Lagerfeld, at Factoría de Arte
in Old Havana.
Many things are happening in Havana and it’s no wonder people are saying it’s the place to be at
right now.
Just a little over a month ago, President Obama visited Cuba with his family, while that same week,
the Rolling Stones gave a legendary concert in the Cuban capital. Rihana and model Joan Smalls came
to Havana for photo shoots, and Usher chose this city to get married. Now, the eighth instalment of
the Fast and Furious series, due to be released in April 2017, is being shot here, while the Adonia
Cruiser, the first to sail from the US to Cuba in more than a half century, made its entrance in
Havana Harbor on May 1. In the light of these events and the increase of visitors, many people assure
that Havana is in fashion.
And demonstrating this in a big way, Karl Lagerfeld made history on May 3 with the presentation
of the Chanel Cruise 2016-2017 Collection, the first show by Chanel in Latin America. The beautiful
tree-lined 18th-century promenade Paseo del Prado became Lagerfeld’s catwalk for this historical
show.
A number of models arrived in Havana, like British Stella Tennant, one of Lagerfeld’s muses, who
attended this past Sunday the opening of the couturier’s photography exhibit, a preamble
to the Chanel Show in Havana. At least half of the models are Cuban, selected by the Chanel team in
a casting held months ago. But surely, the spotlight shined on one male model. Tony Castro, grandson
of Fidel Castro, was signaled out as the grand star of the Chanel show.
Yes, winds of change are blowing in Havana.
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MAY 2016
Photo by Ana Lorena
HAVANA’S
IN FASHION
Chanel Cruise 2017 Collection – Destination: Havana p7
Karl Lagerfeld: Obra en Proceso/Work in Progress p9
Cuban fashion designer Jacqueline Fumero p11
Guadalupe Blázquez – from Chanel to Fast and Furious p13
How do Cuban celebrities dress? p15
Havana Shopping p17
What young people are wearing in Havana p19
Havana’s Hairdressers’ Alley p21
Hats Conquer Havana p24
Beauty Salons Galore! p26
Fast and Furious – street racing in Havana p28
1st Design Biennale of Havana p31
Hostal Sueño Cubano p33
HAVANA LISTINGS
Visual Arts p35 — Photography p38 — Dance p39 —
Music p40 — Theatre p48 — For Kids p49
HAVANA GUIDE
Features - Restaurants - Bars & Clubs - Live Music Hotels - Private Accommodation p57
Chanel Cruise 2017
Collection – Destination: Havana
For a few weeks now an unusual buzz of activity
has been sweeping over Havana’s popular Paseo
del Prado. The tree-shaded promenade began to
be built in 1772 , forming the boundary between
La Habana Vieja and Centro Habana. “Ah…they’re
talking about some fashion thing.” Passersby
comment, oblivious to the ins and outs of haute
couture. “It’s Chanel!” The bronze lions that have
been the guardians of the place since 1928 seem
to be more in the know. These sculptures have
watched the years flow by, from the days when the
area was the capital’s busy business center and
the adjacent streets housed exclusive boutiques,
perfume shops and the ateliers of famous
dressmakers.
We have known about it since last October, and
by now everything is receiving the finishing
touches and the first Latin American fashion show
presented by the celebrated French fashion house
is about to become reality. On the third of May,
the House of Chanel is going to present its prêtà-porter line for its Cruise 2016-2017 Collection.
And now Havana will share the privilege of hosting
such a stellar event in the world of high fashion
with cities such as Miami, Venice, Singapore, Dubai
and Seoul.
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In the words of a press communiqué from Chanel,
“The cultural richness and the opening up of
Cuba to the world make the country a source of
inspiration for Karl Lagerfeld and for Chanel.” Many
of us are anxious to see how Cuban references are
going to be interpreted à la Chanel. Will there be
an explosion of color? Will we be seeing the linen,
cotton, lace, tiny pleats and crochet knits that have
formed the long tradition of dressing Cuban-style?
In short, how is our island flair going to coexist
with French sophistication? And how is that
radiant modernity going to look in the midst of the
rather tarnished eclecticism of the surroundings?
Adding more spice to the mixture, rumors are
floating around that the “Kaiser” Karl Lagerfeld
will be announcing his retirement after the Havana
show, after over thirty years of being the creative
director of the company. Maybe the writer Alejo
Carpentier was right when he complained in his
youth that only “beginner” or “fading” celebrities
came to Cuba. A possible successor is even being
mentioned: Hedi Slimane who has left Yves Saint
Laurent. But these are only rumors, fueled by a
close friend of the German designer and denied by
the Chanel spokesperson who considers them to
be “unfounded.”
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE
7
Meanwhile, the work continues in the Prado,
setting up the runway, installing lights, preparing
guest seating, all hidden by hoardings that won’t
come down until just before show time. Work
is also going on at the Martí Theater, general
headquarters for the troupe, and the managers
and owners of hotels and restaurants in the vicinity
are rubbing their hands with glee: Word has it that
all the rooms in the Saratoga, Parque Central and
Telégrafo hotels are sold out.
It has also been announced, perhaps making the
most of the enthusiasm generated by Chanel, that
the international “Cuba is Fashion” Fair will be held
in Havana from May 31 to June 4, hoping to “take
up its position among the most important players
in the sector” and as “the most representative for
Latin American and Caribbean countries.” The
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event organizers are announcing a series of fashion
shows by foreign and Cuban stylists with special
emphasis on the exquisite national tradition that
has often appeared to be in danger from crumbling
before the avalanche of poorly made products in
the worst of taste.
But for now, curious Havana residents are
getting ready for yet another exceptional event.
Fashionistas are dreaming about Chanel opening
up a branch in Havana so that its shop windows will
provide an endless source of inspiration just as the
El Encanto store used to do for their predecessors.
Celebrity groupies are getting excited too: not just
about the 2016-2017 Cruise Show novelties, but
about the tsunami of jet-set notables that tends to
accompany the Kaiser at his openings. Will George
Clooney be coming…?!
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE
8
FACTORÍA HABANA
OBRA EN PROCESO/WORK IN PROGRESS
APRIL 28 - MAY 12
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE
9
photos by Y. del Monte
“Photography is part of my life. It completes the circle of my artistic and professional
concerns and interest.”
Karl Lagerfeld
Preceding its Cruise 2017 show in Cuba, the House of Chanel is presenting “Obra en
Proceso/Work in Progress,” an unseen-before photography exhibition by its head
designer and creative director, Karl Lagerfeld.
Curated by Eric Pfrunder and Gerhard Steidl, “Obra en Proceso/Work in Progress”
presents a general vision of Lagerfeld’s professional and private photography to
date. The exhibition, which showcases over 200 photographs, opened this past April
28 at Factoría Habana Gallery in Old Havana. Divided into three sections—fashion,
architecture and landscape—the show explores the wide range of motifs, varied styles
and diverse media that characterize Lagerfeld’s tenacious and kaleidoscopic attitude
towards photography.
Karl Lagerfeld explores an ever-increasing range of photographic topics and styles
while he shows his fascination for the use of different exposure and printing techniques.
“Obra en Proceso/Work in Progress” shows that—in Lagerfeld’s own words—“a photo
is not just an image but also a unique visual object.”
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 10
cuban fashion designer
JACQUELINE FUMERO
by Ricardo Alberto Pérez
photos Y. del Monte
The outstanding fashion designer Jacqueline
Fumero has become very visible on the Havana
scene these days ever since her Café-Boutique
opened about three years ago. Her shop is located
in a lovely part of town that carries with it a
substantial load of history and legend: La Loma
del Ángel. Just a few steps from the Museum of the
Revolution, the hill is closely associated with the
most important novel written in Cuba in the 19th
century: Cecilia Valdés.
Born in Havana in 1966, Jacqueline Fumero began
designing clothes in 2003 and soon established
two lines for her work: daywear and evening wear.
Her daywear uses natural fibers such as cotton
and linen and different craft techniques such a
thread-pulling, embroidery, hand-painting and
patchwork. In contrast, her vision for elegant
eveningwear includes silk, chiffon, muslin, gauze,
organza, taffeta and brocade.
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Jacqueline designs both prêt-a-porter and custom
tailoring. The party dresses she creates make use of
adornments in silver, nacre, pearls and Swarovski
crystals. Besides clothing, she also has a line of
bags, purses and necklaces made of semi-precious
stones. Everything she creates gives women the
chance to feel they are creative and bold and that
they are wearing one-of-a-kind items.
Her special concept of elegance has a touch
of simplicity, with styles that are practical and
respond to the demand of our tropical climate,
although they are still tinged with the breath of
the avant-garde and they always work to enhance
female charms. Jacqueline has often stated that
her work reflects the day-to-day experiences of
her country, something of which she is very proud.
Her inspiration comes from the most minimal
details around her and they enrich her highlydeveloped esthetic ideas.
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 11
When we ask about her trajectory in the fashion
business, we discover that she has also devoted
herself to making classic Cuban “batas” or frocks.
Cecilia Valdés is her inspiration for these because
this fictional character is clearly the most vivid
symbol of the image of a Cuban mulatto woman.
This collection combines traditional elements with
contemporary touches and they are both beautiful
and practical.
She has also designed a collection of skirts that
can be used both for day and eveningwear.
Predominantly in black with blue, green or red
applied designs, they come in a wide variety of
informal styles, perfect for women of any age.
A series of exclusive, very youthful dresses in her
shop highlight a very original use of ribbons and
bows. Her boutique is full of glamorous objects
conceived to add sparkle to feminine sensibilities:
boxes, perfume bottles, and a range of decorations.
Jacqueline’s Café & Boutique provides us with a
special venue that combines fashion with culinary
fantasies, all in good taste. Nothing like enjoying
a sensational smoothie, dessert or cup of coffee
surrounded by the vibrant world of fashion.
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 12
GUADALUPE
BLÁZQUEZ
from Chanel to Fast
and Furious
by Ricardo Alberto Pérez
photos Y. del Monte
Cuban model Guadalupe Blázquez Suri (born in
Camagüey, December 10, 1995) told me right away
that she started modeling at the age of 18 after
being discovered by a photographer while she was
talking with some friends in a park. After signing
with the agency Víctor-Fashion, she took part in
runway shows at the Galerías de Paseo shopping
mall in Vedado. This led to Estudio 50 where
she met Luis Mario and was hired for a couple
of assignments. Later, some successful lingerie
advertising assignments for foreign publications
followed.
Guadalupe comes across as a multi-level
professional, a young lady who has very clear
concepts about how to conduct herself in a very
visible profession, both in Cuba and abroad. Her
youthful candor and the measured and decisive
way in which she speaks are part of her decidedly
sensual image.
At one point in our chat she told me that she had
studied saxophone at the elementary level in her
home town of Camagüey. At the age of 14, she
arrived in Havana and enrolled in the National Arts
School (ENA) and subsequently at the Amadeo
Roldán Conservatory of Music, from which she
graduated.
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These days she performs as a musician three times
a week at the Casa Migli Bar and one of her goals,
it seems, is to one day put together a small group
made up only of women. She goes on to explain
to us that switching back and forth from music
to modeling is a rather complicated affair. Both
activities require a lot of time and she finds herself
being forced to be extremely flexible when juggling
these two responsibilities. Her technique is to try
to make them mesh together because she firmly
believes they can be mutually enriching.
Although she has taken part in a number of music
videos promoted by Casa Migli, she thinks that
continuously doing the same thing, such as, for
example, always appearing in reggaeton videos,
could have the effect of harming and minimizing
her image due to over-exposure and therefore
result in a loss of exclusivity. It is pretty clear that
Guadalupe is carefully considering each of her
moves and commitments carefully, concentrating
on the possibilities, and waiting for the best
opportunities to come her way.
Standing out among some of her most recent jobs
is the Artex advertising campaign, especially the
Colección Lauros del 2016, because it promoted
the essential values of creation in Cuba. When the
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 13
French couture house of Chanel held a casting for
the runway show it will stage in Havana on the 3rd
of May, Guadalupe took part and, after ending up
among fifty finalists, she and two other girls were
selected for a historical fashion show that will
surely become an important precedent for the
future of the Cuban modeling and fashion industry.
She is also currently involved in the shooting of the
eighth installment of Fast and Furious in Havana.
Guadalupe spoke to us about how she sees the
future of modeling in Cuba. She hopes that the
changes taking place at the present time will be
very beneficial for the model market and added:
“They say that Cuba is fashionable; now many
come to Cuba not only to enjoy the country but
also thinking of the business opportunities that
can be established here. Things are changing and
as soon as the large corporations which need
advertising get here, this process is going to pick
up speed; advertising is a very important element
in every kind of business. And that is going to open
up many more possibilities.”
When we ask her about Cuba’s image in the world
of fashion today, she says that some people in
Cuba are just beginning to appreciate what
good taste entails when it comes to dressing.
She believes that fashion as a whole has to be
appreciated via the visual. She also acknowledges
that Cuba’s most talented designers are an
elitist group that has no real direct contact with
the people on the street. For that connection to
happen, she thinks we just have to let some time
go by. But she is very optimistic and for now, her
energy knows no bounds.
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 14
Paulo FG
HOW DO CUBAN
CELEBRITIES DRESS?
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by Victoria
Alcalá
Cuba's
Digital Destination
PAGE 15
Whoever has strolled along any Cuban street (or watched TV) and has been
awed by the profusion of cellulite-imprisoning Lycra tights; pants that defy
gravity and fall well south of the waistline to reveal what they’re supposed to
be hiding; blouses, shirts and dresses made of doubtful synthetic textiles,
mostly from Panama and Ecuador (a poet friend of mine who lives in
Ecuador says that he has no idea where they buy that merchandise that
he has never seen in any store there) might get an erroneous idea about
Cuban taste. Strident colors, shiny cloth and trinkets, and garish prints
all seem to wipe out any other trends that would express any refined
or distinguished tradition, not just reserved for the catwalks, and in
which humble neighborhood dressmakers and well-known artisans
are involved.
At every arts and crafts fair, more and more frequently, we get the
chance to acquire reasonably priced garments made of fabrics that
suit our climate, styles that flatter every figure type and which
assimilate the latest fashion trends for all ages. There are regular
spots on TV that not only show us fashions but they also advise
us on how to dress and use makeup depending on our personal
characteristics, the time of day and the place; this involves a
Issac
Delgado
Wendy Guerra
painstaking effort and it seems to be working.
But since our fashion ideals tend to be public figures, it is worthwhile to thank the elegant insouciance
of young singers like Luna Manzanares and Diana Fuentes; the glamor of ballerina Viengsay Valdés; the
daring modernism of writer Wendy Guerra; the laid-back distinction of salsa stars Pablo FG and Issac
Delgado; the elegant Cuban quintessence of fashion designer Ismael de la Caridad... They are bringing
back a long tradition which, over the centuries, left the aristocratic salons and arrived on the streets,
giving Cuban men and women the reputation of being well-dressed.
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PAGE 16
Havana Shopping
photos by Y. del Monte
by Ricardo Alberto Pérez
Beware: Havana is not a shopping paradise and
chances are you’ll never find that special piece of
clothing or shoe brand you need. Having said that,
an increasing number of shopping centers and
boutiques have sprung up throughout Havana that
are worth looking into.
The Saratoga Hotel on Prado Street (yes, just a few
blocks away from Paseo del Prado, the promenade
where the Chanel Cruiser Show is taking place
May 3) has a decent assortment of clothing and
accessories both for the ladies and the gents.
Other hotels you might want to check out fashionwise are the Habana Libre and the Meliá Cohíba
in El Vedado, and Galería Comercial Comodoro.
Fashion concessions in the latter include Mango,
Benetton, Adidas, Converse, Benetton, Clarks and
Lacoste.
Some brand name sportswear that’s available in
Havana are Adidas, Nike, Puma and Joma, which
are pretty widespread in Havana, both in shopping
centers, hotel stores or independent stores. The
spectrum goes from the more classical looks to
the more edgy. Comfort is the password for this
line of items. Meanwhile, Paul & Shark Yachting
in Plaza Vieja is a very exclusive and expensive
boutique offering a selection of yachting clothing
for men and women, including a restricted choice
of shoes.
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For more formal wear, the widely available Fariani
brand has become quite popular, and can be found
at malls and hotels stores. There is also a separate
Fariani shop on Obispo Street. Its popularity is
probably based on the fact that the clothing is not
as expensive as in other boutiques and you can
find both serious and more daring items under the
same name.
One store that has become very popular of late
with young girls is Jennifer López, which sells
clothing bearing the house brand name. It is also
located on Old Havana’s Obispo Street.
If you’re looking for more exclusive designs, get
ready to pay the higher prices at Habaguanex
boutique stores, all located in Old Havana in Plaza
Vieja and Plaza de San Francisco. Diesel Gas sells
youthful clothing perfectly adapted to our climate,
for both men and women. At the Lacoste shop, you
can purchase sporty footwear and an excellent
range of T-shirts and caps. Other shops are United
Colors of Benetton and Pepe Jeans London.
Also on Obispo Stree, just a block away from Plaza
de Armas is El Quitrín, which sells beautiful, high
quality handmade Cuban clothing in cotton and
linen fabrics. The famous guayaberas are a must for
men and there are some chic dresses for women.
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This is just a sample of some of the stores you’ll find
in Havana. Other shopping centers are Carlos III,
La Puntilla, Casa Bella, 5ta y 42, La Vigía, Galerías
Amazonas, and more. Two more upscale one-stop
department stores are La Maison, which also holds
fashion shows, and Le Select, both in Miramar.
With the new wave of private entrepreneurship in
Cuba, several stores have opened in Havana. These
stores are owned either by well-known Cuban
couturiers or by not so well-known designers
who are trying to make a name for themselves in
the business. Two of them are located in the San
Rafael Boulevard, just a couple of blocks away from
Parque Central and another one on Galiano Street.
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PAGE 18
photos by Y. del Monte
What young people are wearing in Havana
by Ricardo Alberto Pérez
So far in this 21st entury, we have been able to
see great transformations in the social behavior
of Cuban young people. This ends up directly
influencing the way in which they perceive and
project fashions here on an Island that has never
wanted to lag behind in any new trend.
What is very interesting is the capacity Cubans
have to make a very unique imprint on anything
that comes to us from abroad. Even though there
are those among us who are highly critical of such
an attitude and use the phrase “Cubans either
reach the goal or they go way past it,” this type of
irreverence characterizes us and puts an exotic
and seductive slant on the behaviors our people
exhibit.
Cuban youth has decided to accept everything
these times have to offer. In this regard, I believe
that the subject of sexuality has also been very
much associated with what is worn and what is
not worn these days.
In terms of fashions, it seems that the sexes
have been manifesting themselves in different
directions. While the guys have a tendency to
cultivate a scruffy image, with hairstyles that look
uncombed, with lumberjack style beards that are
full and somewhat uneven, and boots being worn
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 19
with shorts to complete the image, girls are aiming
for a refined look. They like elaborate hairstyles,
both in the cuts and in the use of hair products,
including keratin, hair wax, mousse… Hair is
getting tinted in different tones of red and blonde,
and braids are a favorite stylistic element for swept
up styles.
As for make-up, it looks like we are seeing a
neutral trend in base tones. Women are tattooing
their eyebrows and applying silver and gold as
“permanent” eyeliners. Lips are veering towards
red and orange and nails are done in bright colors
with an emphasis on the dark range of black, green
and blue.
highlights. These lads wear close-fitting clothing,
both their shirts, and their shorts and trousers,
choosing colors that have been traditionally seta
side for the gals.
There is no doubt that a huge influence on the
fashions worn by young men on the Island has
been exerted by international soccer players,
other sports stars or show business figures who
are very popular here.
Lately we have been seeing a lot of Cuban young
people wearing boots in all styles and colors. They
are worn with short shorts, dresses or jeans. Some
of the younger girls have revived the princess style
dresses, circle skirts and lots of cleavage. Other
popular items are plaid shirts and very short shorts
paired up with canvas sneakers.
When talking about male fashions, we cannot
ignore the importance of the metrosexual these
days in Cuba. This trend sees men shaving their
whole bodies and their eyebrows, wearing earrings
and dying their hair, preferably black or getting
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Havana’s Hairdressers’ Alley
by Ricardo Alberto Pérez / photos by Ana Lorena
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PAGE 21
When in 1999 Gilberto Valladares Reina, known in
his Santo Ángel neighborhood as Papito, started a
project he called Cortearte, I’m sure there were very
few people in Havana that could fully understand
the scope of his undertaking. Almost 17 years later,
reality speaks for itself. In an area that takes up
around 100 meters in Old Havana, life has taken on
a completely different dynamic that has surprised
even his neighbors.
Energy plus creativity gives birth to enterprise. And
this enterprise which is based on lots of hard work
does not only net profits, it comes accompanied
by improvements to the human condition. We
need to examine the essence of this project, one
that reaffirms the historically social importance
occupied by hairdressers and hairdressing salons
in Cuba.
It is almost impossible not to stop and admire the
unique design of the sign posted on the walls of 10
Aguiar Street: Artecorte, Casa Museo de la Barbería
(Hairdressing Museum). Cross the threshold,
climb the stairs and you will discover that the walls
have been turned into a fascinating gallery with
allegorical drawings depicting the art of cutting
and looking after hair. And in this bewitching way,
we are drawn up into the inner sanctum. Another
thing that calls our attention is that close to the
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alley there is a replica of the appointment of the
first barber in the ancient villa de San Cristóbal
de La Habana: his name was Juan Gómez, and the
year was 1552.
Over the years, Gilberto Valladares has evinced
his ability to bring people together and show them
how they can be successfully useful. He has drawn
into the enterprise a group of young unemployed
school dropouts, teaching them the secrets of the
trade of cutting hair. These days the project has
also benefited a group of mute girls who have been
able to learn a greatly valued profession.
This private initiative has been multiplying
spontaneously and harmoniously along the short
boulevard, endowing the alley with a certain
charm. Others have joined the undertaking:
Roberto González inaugurated his Studio/Art
Gallery, designer Pedro Pérez set up a shop selling
traditional clothing such as the well-known
guayaberas, and Luis Carlos Benvenuto, owner of
the Artists’ Café, has joined the small community
contributing to the cultural liveliness of the place
with activities related to urban cinema. As a follower
of the outstanding Cuban filmmaker Humberto
Solás, he hopes to promote the love for the cinema
by carrying out community improvements actions.
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At the far end of the Callejón is the La Farmacia
Bar-Restaurant. It restored the building’s original
uses in the 1940s when it was first a restaurant
and later a pharmacy. It’s the ideal place to stop by
for delicious tapas and drinks, the establishment’s
hallmark.
Some of these places in the alley also collect
and rescue old objects such as cash registers,
typewriters and barbers’ chairs, thereby providing
us with information about the past life of the city
and that of its inhabitants. But more importantly,
it aims to participate in the future, something that
is very positive and speaks highly about the city to
come.
photo by Y. del Monte
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Hats
Conquer Havana
by Ricardo Alberto Pérez
photos by Ana Lorena
photo by Y. del Monte
Both Cubans and foreigners have difficulty
imagining Cuba without having a good hat because
our climate, especially the burning rays of the sun,
practically makes it a must. Besides this practical
requirement, hats have also had their moments of
splendor and have taken part of making definite
fashion statements here on our Island.
The trick for designers is how to make an item of
clothing that is strictly necessary into an element
that will contribute to a personal image. As usual,
the fashion industry has a myriad of answers to
offer.
Those of us in Cuba who are familiar with people
who live in the countryside know that the hats
they use are revered articles of clothing. I have
even heard say that any self-respecting farmer
absolutely had to own two hats: a straw hat for the
daily chores and another one to attend festivities,
take part in social activities or to visit the city.
That straw hat is very significant for Cubans. It is
practically a national symbol, partly due to the fact
that it was always worn by our freedom fighters, the
Mambises, during the wars of independence, and
partly because the process of making it is extremely
authentic and natural. Recently something very
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PAGE 24
interesting has happened to our country straw
hat: it has undergone an urbanization process that
takes it outside of its customary setting in order to
open up new possibilities.
Whenever we look at old family photos or have
the chance to peruse historical photographs, we
are impressed to see how pervasive the custom
of wearing hats was in the past. Hats were also
synonymous with some styles of Cuban music
such as the Son or traditional Trova.
Recently, there has been a veritable explosion in
the manufacture and sale of hats, both in Havana
and in other cities throughout the Island. It seems
that a lot more people are returning to the custom
of wearing a hat.
In this phenomenon of commercialization, several
things draw our attention. First, we can see how
these hats can be bought at a greater number of
places: arts and crafts fairs, Artex shops, even
boutiques. In the second place, we are struck by
the infinite variety of styles and materials used
in their manufacture. Hats come in a rainbow of
colors. And in the third place, the creators of these
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hats have been displaying an incredible intensity
in their creative processes.
In the Cuban context, hats can sometimes even
express a feeling, a kind of militancy reflected by
the signs or symbols featured on it. Hats can also
be decorated with a wide variety of accessories
such as ribbons or feathers. And hats can provide
the finishing touches for both men and women on
our beaches.
Depending upon a person’s style and the type
of image they wish to project, hats can give you
a wide variety of possibilities. I have noticed the
trend in men’s hats to combine them with plaid
shirts and jeans. There also seem to be also some
parallels between hats and short, well-groomed
beards. Women prefer broad-brimmed sunhats
with shapes and colors that set up an attractive
combination with the rest of their outfits.
Of course everyone has their point of view about
headgear but all things considered, hats have
become a permanent feature in current Cuban
fashions. The right hat can certainly complete
anyone’s look, both for men and women.
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PAGE 25
Beauty Salons Galore!
photos by Y. del Monte
by Victoria Alcalá
Visitors to Havana in the 19th century had already
observed that we Cubans love grooming ourselves
and this taste has persisted, defying shortages and
hardships. My teenage years happened to coincide
with the setback of the sugar cane harvest of 1970
and we had to “invent” all sorts of things: detergent
replaced shampoo, watered-down vinegar
substituted hair conditioner, shoe polish was used
as mascara for our lashes, black ball-point pens
served as eyeliner…we were ahead of our time in
terms of organic beauty products when we mashed
avocados with honey to add shine to our hair that
we would straighten out with mom’s good old iron.
The dress I wore at my quinceañera party had been
sewn with the organza and satin coming from one
of my mother’s old negligée and the sandals had
wooden heels and thin straps fashioned out of the
plastic bags used by coffee-growers.
Maybe that’s why these days I love the professional
smells emanating from beauty salons so much.
And I love talking to hairdressers; it doesn’t matter
whether they belong to the group that pampers
their clients or those that maintain a haughty
distance. Whatever their modus operandi, all of
them are well-aware of how much we need their
hands to feel enchanting, whether it’s to keep alive
the spark of enthusiasm in a years-long relationship
or to set out on a new romantic conquest. When
one of my co-workers, who used to be happy with
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 26
a haircut once in a blue moon and who would dye
her hair in her own bathroom, suddenly appears
with a sophisticated do in a sexy tone of burgundy
with shiny highlights, the possibility that she has
just been divorced zooms up to 99%. Straightening,
curling, cutting, dying, highlighting…these are all
operations that, when they are skillfully applied,
result in a radiant appearance that gives our selfesteem a huge shot in the arm.
With the proliferation of beauty salons, many of
them unisex since men are increasingly dying,
bleaching, adding extensions or getting keratin
treatments, that geographically-conditioned state
of affairs when the best stylists were only found
in the jet-set locations of El Vedado or Miramar
seems to have disappeared. Gilberto Valladares
(yes, that’s Papito, the entrepreneur Obama talked
about) has turned a formerly rundown alleyway
in Old havana (Aguiar between Peña Pobre and
Avenida de las Misiones) into Hairdressers’
Boulevard; Danilo Arocha, the official technician in
Cuba for Salerm and Schwarzkopf beauty products,
has opened his shop Darocha on San Indalecio
Street in the popular neighborhood of Santos
Suárez (municipality of 10 de Octubre) where he
also teaches courses for stylists and whose slogan
is an irresistible proposition: “Inspire yourself with
our fashionable haircuts and give yourself a new
image.” I have a young journalist friend who goes
on what is practically an interprovincial journey to
Santiago de las Vegas to get her “California streaks”
done because her hairdresser is “the best.”
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8
IN HAVANA, CUBA
It’s becoming in to say that Cuba is the in thing. Whoever repeats that phrase immediately waves a list of
the celebrities who have visited the Island during the past year as irrefutable proof. But anyone who has
even a sketchy knowledge of Cuban history knows that this vogue goes way back to the 19th century.
Between then and now an incalculable list of famous people has visited Cuba for one reason or another,
from the great Austrian ballerina Fanny Elssler to sopranos Adelina Patti and Marietta Gazzaniga—the
latter was honored by Havana bakers of the time when they concocted a cake that has come down to
our day: the popular gaceñiga. Twentieth-century Cuba welcomed Anna Pávlova, Enrico Caruso, Sara
Bernhardt, Ignacy Paderewski, and many more, all of whom performed on Cuban stages. Igor Stravisnky
conducted the Havana Philharmonic Orchestra, which played a number of his works; Albert Einstein
gave a lecture at the Academy of Sciences; Ernest Hemingway set up general headquarters at his estate
Finca Vigía where, so they say, Ava Gardner (“the most beautiful animal in the world”) occasionally took
a dip naked in the pool; and Marlon Brando went out drinking in sleazy bars in the Marianao Beach
neighborhood.
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 28
After the triumph of the Revolution in 1959, the country was subjected to an avalanche of the curious.
Some of the people arriving in Cuba then were Jean Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, filmmaker
Agnes Varda and actor Gerard Philipe, just to mention the French visitors. Then came others both on
private visits and engaged in intense public activities: Miguel Ángel Asturias, Gabriel García Márquez,
Mario Vargas Llosa, James Petras, Yuri Lotman, Eduardo Galeano, Günter Grass, Joan Manuel Serrat,
Joaquín Sabina, Chico Buarque de Hollanda, Michel Legrand, Paul McCartney, Sting, Sophia Loren, Gina
Lollobrigida, Alain Delon, Kevin Costner, Jack Nicholson, Gregory Peck, Jack Lemmon, Pedro Almodóvar,
Oliver Stone, Steven Spielberg, Arthur Miller, Bobby Fischer, Mohamed Ali, Maia Plisetskaya, Maurice
Béjart, Carla Fracci, Julio Bocca, Vladimir Malakhov, Paco Rabanne, Paris Hilton, Tom Jones, Beyoncé,
Mick Jagger, Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and the list goes on and on.
So even though the international press loves to make a big noise from time to time, after December 17,
2014, Havana residents have seen a number of uber-famous faces around and they haven’t even batted
an eye. And then came the announcement that several scenes of the eighth installment of the Fast and
Furious series, due to be released in April 2017, were to be shot in Havana. The reaction was not so much
amazement but sarcastic comments about how these scouts for exotic locations like Dubai or Rio will
manage to film the de rigueur car races in Havana streets that have potholes so old they deserve to be
declared national heritage.
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Now, please don’t interpret that in any way as lack of interest in what is happening or rather, what is
about to happen. I remember my grandmother would constantly say that “Cubans love the novel, and
not just because they like telenovelas, which they do, but because they are crazy about anything that’s
refreshingly new. Along these lines, there is nothing worse than greeting someone with an anxious “qué
hay de nuevo” [what’s new?] and getting the disappointing answer of “el cuartico está igualito” [nothing
has changed]. Perhaps because we want to counter the sense of isolation imposed by our condition of
being islanders, we go out of our way to keep up with everything that’s happening, we profess to know
both State and intimate secrets, and we always look like we’re on the inside.
So, competing with comments about the recent lowering of the prices of some prime necessity products,
from 6 to 20%, we are now hearing talk about the “casting of almendrones” (those vintage American
cars that still circulate around town) that took place in the vicinity of the Hotel Nacional. Word is out
that the headquarters for the production crews of Fast & Furious 8, the next in Universal Pictures’
celebrated saga, will be the Deauville Hotel. And, we hear that the star of the film, Vin Diesel/Dominic
Toretto, is already in Havana. And then there are those imaginative souls who dream of seeing a shiny
new Dodge Charger Daytona screaming down the Malecón, being chased and obviously overtaken by a
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air.
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 30
by Ricardo Alberto Pérez
It’s hard to believe that there could be any timelier
event for Cuba than the 1st Design Biennale of
Havana scheduled for May 16 to 20. Organized by
the National Design Bureau, ONDI by its Spanish
initials, its secondary locations will be in Camagüey
and Santiago de Cuba. The event comes at a time
when Cuba is undergoing changes in a number of
areas, something that inspires people to rethink
some of their perceptions.
The Biennale setup provides a wide-ranging
program that includes exhibitions, shows, runways
and an overview of Cuban and international design
trends. There will be a theoretical forum held from
May 18 to 20 at the Havana Convention Center
and it will also provide the ideal scenario for
awarding the ONDI Design Prizes, thereby taking
the temperature of what is happening these days
in Cuban design.
We know that design is in fact already ensconced
in a vanguard that is demonstrating visible signs
about every one of the changes that are being
generated in our society. It actively participates
in the desire to be in dialogue and have an
understanding with everything that is new, but at
the same time it wishes to salvage a visual memory
that will enrich the dizzying pace of our present,
overtaken by the dominant effect of images.
Some pretty serious indications have shown us
that our cultural traits are able to cross over design
boundaries along with everything associated
with our insularity and the characteristics of our
climate which consistently, and sometimes unconsciously, has produced our principal customs and
habits on the Island. It is a matter of imprinting the different design fields with an authentic vision of
Cuba that has a vaporous lightness and the humor that characterizes our people without forgetting
about our reflective side, ready to understand the most complicated ideas and incorporate them into
our everyday lives.
The event will be graced by the presence of remarkable design personalities on a world scale and by
important corporations from a variety of regions. Among these visitors, one of the most outstanding
will surely be Martin Sorell, President of the WWP Group, considered to be a world marketing leader.
It takes in many of the most admired global agencies in the industry and employs some 190,000 people
in 112 countries. Our own large body of design talent will of course be present, showing off the work of
a heady blend of highly experienced designers and a younger generation of capable creators who have
their finger firmly placed on the pulse of what is happening in the world today.
The guiding slogan for the event is Design and Prosperity. As in any self-respecting event, this one’s
success will largely depend on how well it will integrate the general public into its theme. It is important
for people to realize that design has the power to improve their quality of life.
We should also emphasize the event’s humanistic nature: taking the spotlight will be matters dealing with
including products geared to physically and motor-skill disabled persons, adding Braille to the labels
on medicine packages, and making sure that the designs on these self-same medicine packages use
colors that are appropriate for the vision restrictions of older people. Packages for products designed
for children should also respond to their demands and fantasies.
Among its priorities, the Havana Design Biennale will be issuing an alert to the sense of professionalism
that should be working hand-in-hand at every level of design. This aspect is more necessary than
ever because the damaging effects on the image and credibility of national design when unskilled
improvisation gets involved interfere with the work of all trained individuals, especially those coming
out of the Higher Institute of Design.
The event will provide confirmation on the fact that our Cuban designers are fully committed to
the world of technology and the sciences and that they also incorporate a high level of culture and
humanism associated with the symbolic and subjective values of consumers, with a full range of practical
experience, tastes and feelings. We are convinced that the merits of Cuban design will be clearly visible
not only in Cuba but within the global dynamic.
Photos by Ana Lorena
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PAGE 32
Hostal Sueño Cubano
photos by Ana Lorena
by Victoria Alcalá
Havana today triggers the interest of people from
all over the world, and the prospects indicate that
one of the most promising businesses lies in the
hospitality sector.
This has been clearly understood by two couples—
Havana residents Ernesto and Ileana, and Stefano
and Silvia, who live in Italy—who today are partners
in what was once a dream and is now a reality:
the Hostal Boutique Sueño Cubano, a remarkably
attractive site located at Calle Santa Clara, No. 66,
in the heart of Old Havana, just a few meters from
Avenida del Puerto.
After an intense search for the perfect location,
they found this building which is halfway between
Plaza Vieja and the Russian Orthodox Church. The
building’s façade is pure stile Liberty while the
Spanish colonial style invades the interiors. The
owners told me that when they discovered the
building, they felt like if they had found a valuable
pearl covered in dust. And immediately, a question
arose: Will it be possible to incorporate it into the
present and yet respect its history?
The restoration and reconstruction process
was arduous, and Santa Clara Street neighbors—
bricklayers, electricians, plumbers—did their bit.
This gave them a sense of belonging within a
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PAGE 33
positive atmosphere. Stefano prepared the first
restoration project and work began on October 29,
2014, with the advice of Stefano himself and the
experience acquired by Ernesto in this adventure
that lasted approximately a year and a half.
the Museum of Colonial Art, located in Cathedral
Square, and consulting books that recreated
colonial Havana, their customs and fashions. The
end result is simply fantastic, and very respectful
of the building’s history.
Taking a look at certain features that ensure the
comfort of future guests, we need to mention
the effectiveness of the modern hydraulic system
that was installed, capable of ensuring optimal
water pressure, which can make guests feel they
are under a tropical rain. In addition, the entire
electrical installation provides security and visible
practicality in its use.
The natural light that filters through the windows
in rooms and corridors becomes a show in itself as
the day progresses into the stunning Havana night.
As I toured the hostel, poking around its rooms, I
experienced a very pleasant feeling of peace and
an intimate atmosphere that is not so easy to find
in this part of the old city. Thanks to Stefano’s wife,
Silvia, the ambiance is strengthened by ideally
chosen furniture, lamps and other accessories
that harmonize with the characteristics of the
property. This was a job that Silvia took very
seriously, to the point of making frequent visits to
In the cozy and intimate dining room, guests can
start the day out with either an excellent Cuban or
international breakfast.
lahabana
The hostel features four terraces, ideal for enjoying
a drink from the bar, and even a refreshing
guarapo—sugar cane juice—that comes out of the
traditional trapiche, or sugarcane press.
So if you are thinking of taking a trip to Cuba,
do not hesitate in spending your holiday at the
beautifully designed Hostal Sueño Cubano, where
your Cuban dream will surely come true.
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 34
VISUAL ARTS
photos by Alex Mene
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes.
Edificio de Arte Cubano
Contaminación
MUSEO NACIONAL DE BELLAS ARTES. EDIFICIO DE ARTE CUBANO
THROUGH
JUNE 19
Los rostros de la modernidad. The entry of Cuban visual arts in the modernity of the avantgarde and its various trends can be seen in 45 photos made from 1925 to 1957 by 15 important
photographers, including Jorge Arche, Arístides Fernández, Víctor Manuel, Wifredo Lam,
Amelia Peláez and Mariano Rodríguez.
THROUGH
AUGUST 19
Cardinales is a group of paintings in which Cuban artist Carlos Alberto García used a mixed
technique on cloth. The medium- and full-scale pictures were created especially for this
occasion. The artist has defined his work as “very much connected to early 20th-century
avant-gardes, especially Expressionism.
GALERÍA GALIANO
THROUGH
MAY 27
PALACIO DE LOMBILLO
La Familia Real, six canvases and a
light box by Marco Arturo Herrera
focuses on aristocratic society, its
surroundings and characters.
THROUGH
MAY 28
100 años de Social, a selection of
the best pieces entered in this
poster competition.
OPENS MAY 6
Ángeles de bruma, by Alberto
Sautúa Fernández, who explores
the female universe through
recently created drawings and
paintings.
SALA ABELARDO ESTORINO. MINISTERIO DE CULTURA
THROUGH
JUNE 11
Cosas de mujeres, group show by
Jacqueline Brito, Flora Fong, Alicia
Leal, Julia Valdés and Lesbia Vent
Dumois.
VITRINA DE VALONIA
MAY 23
lahabana
Cuba's Digital Destination
Habana, exhibition about Cuban
comic strips.
PAGE 35
CASA DEL ALBA CULTURAL
THROUGH
MAY 29
CENTRO HISPANO AMERICANO DE CULTURA
Cartel / Mujer/ Cartel
OPENS MAY 17
Diseño y prosperidad, exhibition
of prizewinning works during the
1st International Design Biennial of
Havana, BID Habana 2016.
THROUGH
MAY 27
The Seattle-La Habana-Tehran
Poster Show, exhibition of posters
made by designers from these
three cities, that reveal common
aspoects shared by their respective
cities. Seattle: David Gallo, Carlos
Ruiz, Vittorio Castarella, Shay
Roth, Jeff Kleinsmith, Ames Bros,
Jesse LeDoux, Chad Lundberg, Jan
Smith, David Bratlon, Seab Waple,
Shogo Ofa, Darib Shuler, Kelsey
Gallo, Devon Varmega, Joanna
Wecht, Andrew Crawshaw, Adam
Vick and Chelsea Wirtz. Havana:
Darwin Fornés, Edel Rodríguez
(Mola), Darién Sánchez, Idania
del Río, Raúl González (Raupa),
Robertiko Ramos, Fabián Muñoz,
Michelle Miyares, Eric Silva, Giselle
Monzón, Nelson Ponce, Lily Díaz,
Laura Llópiz, Pepe Menéndez and
Carlos Zamora. Teheran: Shahrzad
Changalvaee, Reza Abedini, Reza
Babajani, Mojtaba Adibi, Aliagha
Hasseinpour, Homa Delavaray,
Mehdi Fatehi, Farhad Fozouni,
Iman Raad, Babak Safari, Masoud
Morgan, Morleza Mahallati, Alireza
Askarifa, Mohammadreza Abdalali,
Erfan
Jamshida,
Mohammad
Khodashenas and Naghi Vaseiy. CENTRO DE ARTE CONTEMPORÁNEO WIFREDO LAM
THROUGH
MAY 6
La madre de todas las artes is an
exhibition by over 50 artists, such
as Lidzie Alviza, Luis Enrique
Camejo, Los Carpinteros, Ernesto
García Peña, Arturo Montoto,
Mabel Poblet, Wilfredo Prieto
and Sandra Ramos, whose central
theme is the interest shown by
a significant number of Cuban
artists in architecture.
THROUGH
JUNE 18
Desde el sonido, solo show by
Ricardo Martínez.
Voces indígenas, curatorial project
by Alfons Hugs.
THROUGH 20
Ni sagrado ni secular, show
by
Henry
Erick
Hernández
and Canadian artist Marysse Goudreau.
MAY 27-JUNE 27
Cool War, project by Rachel Price on
technologies with the participation
of Cuban and international artists.
THROUGH
JUNE 30
Si las paredes hablaran, solo show
by Colombian artist Lina Leal.
CENTRO CULTURAL CINEMATOGRÁFICO
FRESA Y CHOCOLATE
MAY 7-JUNE 3
Figure it Out, abstract works by
artist Martha Beatriz.
CENTRO DE DESARROLLO DE LAS ARTES VISUALES
THROUGH
MAY 25
Mujeres en acción de gritar, tour of
post-1959 Cuban posters created
by women artists.
FÁBRICA DE ARTE CUBANO
THROUGH
MAY 15
Pórtate bien, group show.
Diseñadores que ilustran, group
show.
El cartel social y la imagen
femenina en el cartel francés,
group show by French artists.
MAY 16-JUNE 16
Las esquinas, group show.
THROUGH
JUNE 16
Nuevos medios, group show.
El doble, show by artists Carlos
Quintana and Enrique Rottenberg.
FACTORÍA HABANA
OPENS MAY 15
FUNDACIÓN ANTONIO NÚÑEZ JIMÉNEZ DE LA
NATURALEZA Y EL HOMBRE
THROUGH
MAY 20
Monte, with works
Antonio Núñez.
lahabana
by
Palimpsesto, show by Swiss graphic
designers Gavillet & Rus.
artist
Cuba's Digital Destination
Clara Porset…el eterno retorno
vindicates an artist who is
considered one of the most
important designers of the 20th
century.
PAGE 36
GALERÍA ALTERNATIVA DE LUZ Y OFICIOS
MAY 10-JUNE 11
Partitura en rojo, group show
organized by Casa Yeti, Casa Museo
Antonia Eiriz and the Centro
Provincial de Artes Plásticas.
GALERÍA LA ACACIA
THROUGH
MAY 22
GALERÍA ARTIS 718
THROUGH
MAY 27
Discurso fragmentado, paintings
by Harold López, related to
portraiture, in which he makes
use of pop art, expressionism and
other trends.
GALERÍA ORÍGENES
THROUGH
MAY 14
GALERÍA COLLAGE HABANA
THROUGH
JUNE 17
The Merger, sculptures, objects
and installations, and the works
that constitute the project of
these sculptures and installations
on canvas and bristol, belonging
to the creative group The Merger,
made up by Alain Pino, Mario
Miguel González (Mayito) and
Niels Moleiro.
Límites, solo show by Linet
Oquendo Meneses, undergraduate
of the Unniversity of the Arts,
who reflects on the barriers and
thinking of contemporary man.
THROUGH
MAY 31
Retrospectiva del implosivismo,
1950-2015, from New York to Old
San Juan, with paintings by Wilfred
Labiosa.
THROUGH
MAY 27
$0$, by Yunier Hernández, refers
to the anguish felt by the artist
in relation with money: “I fear its
growth and the multiplicity of
powers it establishes in social life.”
MAY 20-JULY 8
Jerarquía negada, solo show by ex
Carpintero Alexander Arrechea,
who has insistently delved into
the “surveillance and cocntrol
mechanisms from the position of
power.”
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Cuentidubujos, show by artist,
illustrator and designer Enrique
Martínez, a true classic among
illustrators of books for children
in Cuba.
GALERÍA VILLENA
OPENS
MAY 20
Story de mi vida, show by designer
Raúl Raupa Valdés, who has put
together a group of original works
that in the manner of a graphic
script narrate stories that reflect
personal experiences.
PABELLÓN CUBA
THROUGH JUNE
GALERÍA HABANA
THROUGH
MAY 13
Cambio de rostro, by painter
Barbaro Mirelys Pango Reyes
Mesa.
GALERÍA VILLA MANUELA
GALERÍA EL REINO DE ESTE MUNDO.
BIBLIOTECA NACIONAL JOSÉ MARTÍ
THROUGH
MAY 27
Memorias, exhibition of works
by artists Sandra Ramos, Ibrahim
Miranda and Belkys Ayón.
GALERÍA VÍCTOR MANUEL
GALERÍA D NASCO
MAY 19-31
La leve gracia de los desnudos,
paintings, drawings, sculptures,
photography and performance
in this group show of artists
Víctor Manuel, Carlos Enríquez,
Servando Cabrera, Raúl Martínez,
Tomas Esson, Rafael Zarza and
Adonis Flores.
Cuba's Digital Destination
Fuerza y sangre. Imaginarios
de la bandera en el arte cubano
is a collection of 160 pieces by
124 Cuban artists of different
trends, esthetics, manifestations
(painting, sculpture, installation,
printmaking,
drawing,
photography, etc.), who have
repeatedly
or
occasionally
included the Cuban flag in their
work. Veteran artists like Raúl
Martínez, Nelson Domínguez,
Roberto Fabelo, Manuel Mendive,
René Francisco, Raúl Corrales or
Osvaldo Salas join younger artists
representative of the Cuban
artistic vanguard in this singular
homage to the Cuban flag.
PAGE 37
PHOTOGRAPHY
FOTOTECA DE CUBA
THROUGH MAY 15
Wanted Bikers, exhibition by French artist Philippe Vermes, with pictures taken in the late 1980s during bike
demonstrations in Loudon (New Hampshire) and Sturgis (South Dakota).
MAY 20-JUNE 18
La ciudad infinita, with pictures taken by Jennifer Jiménez Rico, prizewinner of the Alfredo Sarabia Biennial in
Pinar del Río.
MAY 20-JUNE 20
Algunas imágenes de la colección, exhibition from the collection of the Fototeca de Cuba.
CASA DE LAS AMÉRICAS
THROUGH
MAY 17
CENTRO CULTURAL BERTOLT BRECHT
Pares y nones, contemporary
photography from Haiti and
Dominican Republic.
THROUGH
MAY 15
Campo de batalla, first solo
exhibition of artist Yasser Expósito
Cárdenas, with pictures of the
Cuban stage.
MUSEO DEL RON
THROUGH
MAY 28
lahabana
Cuba's Digital Destination
Exposición
de
René
Peña,
exhibition by one of the great
Cuban photographers.
PAGE 38
DANCE
Concert program
DANZA CONTEMPORÁNEA DE CUBA
MAY 13-14, 8:30PM; MAY 15, 5PM
GRAN TEATRO DE LA HABANA ALICIA ALONSO
Performance of three new choreographies: El
cristal, by Julio César Iglesias; Cenit, by Laura
Domingo Agüero, and Matria Etnocentra, by
George Céspedes.
Ciudad de Guantanamo
La danza y sus estilos
MAY 21, 5PM
CENTRO HISPANO AMERICANO DE CULTURA
Show by the Así Somos, Ecos and Ban Rará dance
companies, directed by Lourdes Cagical, Ana Rosa
Menéndez and Isais Rojas, respectively.
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 39
THURSDAY, MAY 5
SATURDAY, MAY 7
SALÓN ROSADO DE LA TROPICAL
FÁBRICA DE ARTE CUBANO “TURNTABLES IN HAVANA”
Esquina 46, Avenida 41, Havana
Calle 26, Havana
7:00PM - 8:00PM KIKE WOLF (CUBA)
2:00PM - 9:00PM PRE-SHOW - VIP LOUNGE
8:00PM - 9:00PM ADONIS & OSAIN DEL MONTE
(CUBA)
PRESS, VIP, ARTIST CREDENTIAL PICKUP
9:30PM - 10:30PM IBEYI (FRANCIA)
11:00PM - 12:00AM LARITZA BACALLAO (CUBA)
12:00AM - 2:00AM DJ CEDRIC GERVAIS (FRANCIA
/ US)
7:00PM - 8:00PM NAPPY G (US)
X Alfonso
8:00PM
9:00PM DJ DRM (US)
Photo
Alex-Mene
9:00PM - 10:00PM CUMBA MELA (US)
10:00PM - 11:00PM DJ JIGUE (CUBA)
11:00PM - 12:00AM DJ JOYVAN (CUBA)
12:00AM - 2:00AM DJ NICKODEMUS (US) &
UPROOT ANDY (CA) + NAPPY G ON PERCUSSION
(US)
FRIDAY, MAY 6
SALÓN ROSADO DE LA TROPICAL
4:00PM - 6:00PM PRESS, VIP, ARTIST CREDENTIAL
PICKUP AT LA TROPICAL
6:00PM - 7:00PM DJ ART BLEEK (US)
SUNDAY MAY 8
FÁBRICA DE ARTE CUBANO “TURNTABLES IN HAVANA”
7:00PM - 8:00PM DJ LEJARDI (CUBA)
8:30PM - 9:30PM LA BETE NOIRE (FRANCE / US)
2:00PM - 9:00PM PRE-SHOW - VIP LOUNGE
PRESS, VIP, ARTIST CREDENTIAL PICKUP
11:30PM - 12:30AM JUANA BACALLAO (CUBA)
1:00AM - 2:30AM INTERACTIVO (CUBA)
SALÓN ROSADO DE LA TROPICAL
IBEYI
6:00PM - 7:00PM CUMBA MELA (US)
7:00PM - 8:00PM UPROOT ANDY (CA)
8:00PM - 9:00PM JEREMY SOLE (US)
9:00PM - 10:00PM NICKODEMUS (US)
10:00PM - 11:30PM HAVANA D’PRIMERA (CUBA)
12:00AM - 1:30AM TROMBONE SHORTY (US)
1:30AM - 3:00AM DJ RASHIDA (US)
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 40
MUSIC
CONTEMPORARY
FUSION
BALNEARIO UNIVERSITARIO EL CORAL
FRIDAYS &
SATURDAYS
1PM-1AM
GATO TUERTO
Electronic music with rapping,
DJing,
Vjing,
Dj-producers,
breakdancing
and
graffiti
writing, among other urban art
expressions.
Grupo vocal Retro
SATURDAYS
/ 10PM
Tenor Bernardo Lichilín and DJ
Eddy Sánchez
CAFÉ CONCERT EL SAUCE / 5 PM
SUNDAYS
La Máquina de la Melancolía, with
Frank Delgado and Luis Alberto
García
TERCERA Y 8
MONDAYS
11 PM
SUBMARINO AMARILLO / 9 PM
Miel con Limón
SUNDAYS
Eddie Escobar
MAY 4
Los Tackson
Interactivo
SATURDAYS
David Blanco
Nube Roja
WEDNESDAYS
Qva Libre
lahabana
Rock ’n’ Roll with Vieja Escuela.
FRIDAYS
Electronic music with Sarao.
MAY 11
Darkness Fall, Switch y Krampus
MAY 18
Congregatión, Combat
Saloma y Treinkill
MAY 25
Estigma DC, Okularis,
Treatment Choice
Noise,
679
y
SATURDAYS
11 PM
Gens
EN GUAYABERA
CAFÉ CANTANTE, TEATRO NACIONAL / 5 PM
TUESDAYS
SUNDAYS
5 PM
DIABLO TUN TUN
CENTRO CULTURAL BERTOLT BRECHT / 11 PM
WEDNESDAYS
CASA DE LA AMISTAD
SALÓN ROSADO DE LA TROPICAL / 9 PM
Baby Lores
MONDAYS
/ 12PM & 11PM
THURSDAYS,
FRIDAYS &
SUNDAYS
WEDNESDAYS
10:30 PM
Hip-Hop Night
/ 5 PM
DON CANGREJO
MAY 15
10PM
Cuba's Digital Destination
Alexander Abreu y Havana de
Primer
PAGE 41
Photo by Alex Mene
Photo Alex Mene
SALSA / TIMBA
CASA DE LA MÚSICA DE MIRAMAR
CASA DE LA MÚSICA HABANA
MONDAYS
5 PM
11 PM
Maykel Blanco y Salsa Mayor
Sur Caribe
TUESDAYS
5 PM
Alexander Abreu y Havana D
Primera
ALL DAYS
5 PM & 11 PM
Popular dance music
Juan Guillermo
ALL DAYS
5 PM & 11 PM
Popular dance music
FRIDAYS
Azúcar Negra
SUNDAYS
Grupo Moncada
Alain Daniel
CASA DE 18 / 8 PM
Popular dance music hosted by
Blanca Rosa Blanco
FRIDAYS
Iván y Fiebre Latina
SATURDAYS
Ahí Namá
EN GUAYABERA
DIABLO TUN TÚN
THURSDAYS
11 PM
Charanga Latina
WEDNESDAYS
11 PM
Manana Club
CARPA TROMPOLOCO
FRIDAYS
6 PM
THURSDAYS
11 PM
TERCERA Y 8
CAFÉ CANTANTE. TEATRO NACIONAL
MONDAYS
11 PM
José Luis Cortés y NG La Banda
JARDINES DEL 1830 / 10 PM
SALÓN ROJO DEL HOTEL CAPRI
SUNDAYS
11 PM
WEDNESDAYS
11 PM
NG La Banda
lahabana
SATURDAYS
10:30PM
Cuba's Digital Destination
Haila y su grupo
PAGE 42
MUSIC
JAZZ
Jazz Café
Calle 88A No. 306 e/ 3ra y 3ra A,
Miramar. +53 (07) 209-2719
Mellow, sophisticated and freezing due to extreme
air conditioning, the Jazz Café is not only an
excellent place to hear some of Cuba’s top jazz
musicians, but the open-plan design also provides
for a good bar atmosphere if you want to chat.
Less intimate than La Zorra y el Cuervo – located
opposite Melia Cohiba Hotel.
Café Jazz Miramar
SHOWS: 11 PM - 2AM
This new jazz club has quickly established itself as
one of the very best places to hear some of Cuba’s
best musicians jamming. Forget about smoke filled
lounges, this is clean, bright—take the fags outside.
While it is difficult to get the exact schedule and in
any case expect a high level of improvisation when
it is good it is very good. A full house is something
of a mixed house since on occasion you will feel
like holding up your own silence please sign!
Nonetheless it gets the thumbs up from us.
UNEAC
MAY 12
5 PM
JARDINES DEL TEATRO MELLA
La Esquina del Jazz, hosted by
showman Bobby Carcassés
CAFÉ MIRAMAR
WEDNESDAY
8 PM
Zule Guerra (singer) & Blues D’ La
Habana
CENTRO CULTURAL BERTOLT BRECHT
MONDAYS
4 PM
Lunes de la Juventud
TUESDAYS
10 PM
Casabe World Music
SATURDAYS
10:30 PM
César López (saxophonist) and
Havana Ensemble
lahabana
THURSDAYS
11 PM
Jam Session
ASOCIACIÓN CUBANA DE
DERECHOS DE AUTOR MUSICAL
MAY 9
6 PM
Cuba's Digital Destination
Alexis Bosch (pianist) & Proyecto
Jazz Cubano
PAGE 43
MUSIC BOLERO, FOLKLORE, SON & TROVA
ASOCIACIÓN YORUBA DE CUBA
FRIDAYS
8:30 PM
DIABLO TUN TUN / 5 PM
Obbiní Batá(folkloric group
THURSDAYS
EL JELENGUE DE AREÍTO / 5 PM
CAFÉ CANTANTE, TEATRO NACIONAL / 5 PM
MONDAYS
Proyecto Lírico
CAFÉ TEATRO BERTOLT BRECHT
MAY 28
3 PM
Rafael Espín and guests
CASA DE ÁFRICA
MAY 7
4 PM
Eduardo Sosa
Síntesis
WEDNESDAYS
Trova
THURSDAYS
Conjunto Arsenio Rodríguez
FRIDAYS
Rumberos de Cuba
SUNDAYS
Rumba
Ivette Cepeda.
HURÓN AZUL, UNEAC
Trova
Bolero Night
SATURDAYS
9 PM
THURSDAYS
Abel Maceo y Buena Vida
FRIDAYS
Son en Klab
PABELLÓN CUBA / 4 PM
Tres Tazas with trovador Silvio
Alejandro
FRIDAYS
GATO TUERTO
BIBLIOTECA NACIONAL JOSÉ MARTÍ
FRIDAYS
5 PM
La Hora Infiel, with music, visual
arts, literature and more.
DAILY
8 PM
Gato Tuerto Nights, hosted by
Julio Acanda
BARBARAM PEPITO’S BAR / 10:30PM
Yaima Sáez
Concert by Ivette Cepeda
MAY 5
4 PM
LE SELECT / 9 PM
FRIDAYS
Yaíma Sáez
SATURDAYS
Grupo Moncada
CASA DE 18 / 4 PM
CENTRO IBEROAMERICANO DE LA DÉCIMA
MAY 7
3 PM / Ad Libitum Duet
MAY 29
5 PM
El Jardín de la Gorda with trovadors
from every generation
CENTRO CULTURAL FRESA Y CHOCOLATE / 9 PM
SATURDAYS
Conjunto Chappottín
FRIDAYS
9:30 PM
DELIRIO HABANERO / 10 PM
SATURDAYS
TUESDAYS
HOTEL TELÉGRAFO
CASONA DE LÍNEA
SUNDAYS
8 PM
Trova with Ray Fernández
Trova with Frank Martínez
WEDNESDAYS
Héctor Téllez
THURSDAYS
José Valladares
FRIDAYS
Leidis Díaz
SUNDAYS
Georgeana
CLUB AMANECER / 5 PM
FRIDAYS
Conjunto de Arsenio Rodríguez
CENTRO HISPANOAMERICANO DE CULTURA
MAY 14
MAY 28
5 PM
ABossanova Sinfónico,
Brazilian jamming that combines
voices, piano, drums and bass.
5 PM /
Concert by trovadora
campos and guests
lahabana
DOS GARDENIAS / 10 PM
WEDNESDAYS
Haila María Mompié
Marta
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Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 45
CLASSICAL MUSIC
BASÍLICA MENOR DE SAN FRANCISCO DE ASÍS / 6 PM
MAY 12
Concert by Barbara Hendricks, accompanied by the Camerata Romeu.
MAY 14
Recital by the Entrevoces Choir, condcuted by Digna Guerra.
MAY 21
Performance by the Cello Capriccioso duet, made up by Cuban cellist Douglas Vistel and
German pianist Almuth Krausser-Vistel.
BIBLIOTECA NACIONAL JOSÉ MARTÍ
SATURDAYS
4 PM
Concerts by chamber soloists and ensembles.
SALA IGNACIO CERVANTES / 6 PM
MAY 15
The Promúsica duet, composed of Alfredo Muñoz (violin) and Maria Victoria del Collado
(piano), with the participation of clarinetist Aristides Porto, will play perform works by
Schubert, Debussy, Khachaturian and Cuban composer Juan Piñera.
MAY 18
Lyric concert Marie Galante or Exile Without Return, with the participation of French soprano
Emilie Pictet, the Orchestra of the Gran Teatro Alicia Alonso and Toni Piñera as reciter.
MAY 22
Italian pianist and composer Paolo Vergari will play works by Bach, Schubert, Brahms and
Messiaen.
MAY 29
Performance by the Exaudi choir, conducted by Maria Felicia Perez.
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PAGE 46
CASA VICTOR HUGO / 5 PM
MAY 27
Duo Cáliz, made up by Luis Manuel Molina (guitar) and Vicente Monterry (clarinet).
MAY 28
Concierto del tenor Bernardo Lichilín.
GRAN TEATRO DE LA HABANA / 7 PM
MAY 7
Concert Amistad Cuba-Estados Unidos (Cuba-United States Friendship), with works by
European and American composers, including Mozart, Verdi, Johann Strauss II, George
Gershwin, Carlisle Floyd, Leonard Bernstein, Ernesto Lecuona, Gonzalo Roig and Rodrigo
Prats, played by Cuban and American musicians.
MAY 14
& MAY 15
Maria de Buenos Aires, tango-opera with music by Astor Pizzolla and libretto by Horacio Ferrer,
in concert form. In the main roles: soprano Pilar Pousada (Shadow of Mary), mezzosopranos
Dunia Pedraza and Malú Méndez (María of Buenos Aires), tenor Jorge Félix Leyva (Porteño
Sparrow), and students of the Academy of Singing of the National Lyric Theater of Cuba in
the choruses. Renowned actor Jorge Luis de Cabo will play the role of el Duende (the Goblin
Ghost Storyteller), leitmotif of the work. Artistic direction by Helson Hernandez and musical
direction by pianist Gabriel Chorens, who has made an interesting review of the original score
to bring a different sound for a chamber format, without altering its original conception.
ORATORIO SAN FELIPE NERI
MAY 6
7PM
Closing concert of orchestral workshops of the ISA Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the
Austro-English maestro Walter Reiter.
MAY 7
4PM
Concert by the Ventus Habana wind quintet and the D’Accord duet.
MAY 19
7PM
Performance by oboist Frank Ernesto Fernandez Neira and the ISA Symphony Orchestra.
MAY 21
4PM
Recital by clarinetist Aristides Porto and guests.
MAY 26
7PM
Performance by the awarded pianist Victor Diaz.
MAY 28
4PM
Recital by the great soprano Maria Eugenia Barrios, who will offer a sample of her vast
repertoire.
SALA COVARRUBIAS. TEATRO NACIONAL / 11 AM
SUNDAYS
Performances by the National Symphony Orchestra.
MAY 8
Special concert with the Spanish maestro Gregorio Gutierrez as guest conductor: Introduction
and dance of the opera La vida breve and Noches en los jardines de España, by Manuel de
Falla; Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 3.
PARROQUIA DEL SAGRADO CORAZÓN DE JESÚS / 7 AM
MAY 28
Conciertos solidarios: Solidarity concerts, organized by Leo Brouwer, designed to benefit the
most vulnerable individuals and groups in Cuban society (toys, medicines, staples or cash
donations are appreciated).
SALA GONZALO ROIG. PALACIO DEL TEATRO LÍRICO NACIONAL / 7 AM
MAY 29
Cuerda Dominical, with guitarist Luis Manuel Molina.
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PAGE 47
THEATRE
Diez millones
ARGOS TEATRO / PRODUCTION: CARLOS CELDRÁN, THROUGH
MAY 8, FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS, 8:30PM; SUNDAYS, 5PM , SALA
ARGOS TEATRO
This play by Carlos Celdrán explores the emotional
education of a child and teenager in the past
decades in Cuba, his relationship with his parents,
History and the events that shaped his life.
Teatro Trianón
Photo Alex Mene
El lobo, el bosque y el
hombre nuevo
GRUPO BLANCO Y NEGRO, MAY 12, 19 & 26, 6PM , CENTRO
HISPANOAMERICANO DE CULTURA
Adaptation of Senel Paz’s short story of the same
name ,which the film Fresa y chocolate, by Tomás
Gutiérrez Alea, was based on.
Cachivache
THÉÂTRE OCTOBRE DE BRUSELAS, MAY 21, 8PM, SALA ADOLFO LLAURADÓ
Play by the Spanish actor and playwright Alberto García Sánchez. The play examines humoristic ally
the relation of man with things and reflects on consumption and the world in the imaginary city of
Cachivache.
CAMILO
LAS VENAS ABIERTAS
Teatro La Candelaria (Colombia)
May 13-15, 7 pm
Centro Cultural Bertolt Brecht. Sala Tito Junco
MENDOZA
VIBRACIONES
Teatro Los Colochos (Mexico)
May 17-18, 8:30pm
Centro Cultural Bertolt Brecht. Sala Tito Junco
CUBAN COFFEE BY PORTAZO’S COOPERATIVE (CCPC)
Teatro El Portazo (Cuba)
May 20-21, 8:30pm; May 22, 5pm
Centro Cultural Bertolt Brecht. Sala Tito Junco
OTELLO
Viaje Inmóvil (Chile)
May 17-19, 5pm
Sala Hubert de Blanck
lahabana
Teatro La Rosa (Cuba)
May 13-15, 8:30pm
Centro Cultural Bertolt Brecht. Café Teatro
Yuyachkani (Peru)
May 19-20, 5pm
Centro Cultural Bertolt Brecht. Café Teatro
EL QUIJOTE NO EXISTE
Teatro Gayumba (Dominican Republic)
May 13-15, 5pm
Sala Adolfo Llauradó
EVOCANDO A LOS MUERTOS...
Ói Nóis Aquí Traveiz (Brazil)
May 17-19, 7pm
Sala Adolfo Llauradó
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 48
FOR KIDS
Había una vez... un circo
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, 3PM Y 8PM, CARPA TROMPOLOCO
Circus with magic acts, trapeze, juggling,
acrobatics, clowns and more. Reservations online: www.circonacionaldecuba.cu
Muñecos, cuentos y
canciones
MAY 7, 11AM
CENTRO HISPANOAMERICANO DE CULTURA
Show by the group Escena X, directed by Omar
Piedra.
Concierto de la
agrupación infantil Olas
MAY 7, 2PM, CENTRO HISPANOAMERICANO DE CULTURA
Concert celebrating the seocnd anniversary of
the children’s chorus Olas, a project of Schola
Cantorum Coralina, directed by Mercedes Pla.
Fantasías
Contada y concurso
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, 3PM
CINE YARA
MAY 14, 10AM
CASA DE LA OBRA PÍA
Circus show with magic, pole dance, aerial ribbons,
lassos, whips, acrobatics, hula hoop, juggling,
clowns and much more.
Storytelling for children and children’s competition
ContArte, with participants of the workshop of
the same name from La Lisa and other districts in
the capital, organized by Circuito de Oralidad del
Festival ContArte.
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PAGE 49
EVENTS IN HAVANA
Feria Internacional Cubadisco 2016
MAY 14-22
NACIONAL, KARL MARX THEATERS, SALA AVENIDA AND CASA DEL ALBA CULTURAL
CUBADISCO 2016: DANCING WITH TRADITIONS
Cuba draws from an incredibly rich musical heritage. As anyone who has spent any time in Cuba knows,
you are never far from the sound of live music. Toby Brocklehurst is only half joking when he explains
that ‘There are 100,000 registered musicians in Cuba and everyone else plays the guitar.’ Cubadisco
is not so much Cuba’s version of the Garmmy’s as its own musical celebration and appreciation of the
strides, which Cuban musicians and the Cuban recoding industry have made over the years. There are
25 prize categories with the main awards being keenly sought. The festival includes concerts, recitals,
symposia and exhibits, and undoubtedly represents Cuba’s most important musical awards. The Festival
has been held since 1997 and brings together the different Cuban recording studios and record labels
under one roof for a week or so of celebration of music…
The 2016 edition of the Cubadisco International Fair is dedicated to popular dance music and acknowledges
its evolution in other provinces. As a preamble to the awards ceremony in Havana, Cubadisco will carry
out different activities that delve in the development of popular dance music throughout the Island,
through the project “Dancing with Traditions” until May 15.
This initiative of the Cuban Institute of Music includes colloquiums, tributes, lectures on traditional
folk music handed down from generation to generation and which is part of the Cuban identity. The
initiative will focus on three broad areas: song, dances and musical instruments.
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PAGE 50
EVENTS IN HAVANA
MAY
HAVANA
Created on the initiative of President of the European nation François Hollande during his
visit to Havana in May 2015, music, theater, dance, architecture, design and film, among
other art forms, will be present during the French Culture Month in Cuba, which began on
April 27 with three exhibitions at the Alliance Francaise of Cuba, the former Palacio Gomez
in Old Havana.
The ambitious program of the event will bring the diversity and dynamism of French arts
to the Cuban public.
The event will coincide with the French Film Festival that is held every year in Havana.
Also, the House of Chanel will be presenting its Cruiser Show in Havana on May 3.
Parallel to the event, Paris will host from the 2nd of May the Cuban culture Month aimed
at sharing the wealth and artistic diversity of Cuba with the French public.
PROGRAM (SELECTED ACTIVITIES)
THORUGH MAY 12
FACTORÍA HABANA
THROUGHOUT MAY
ALIANZA FRANCESA DEL PRADO
Karl Lagerfeld, Obra en Proceso / Work in Progress,
a general vision of Karl Lagerfeld’s professional and
private photography.
THROUGHOUT MAY
MUSEO NAPOLEÓNICO
Exhibition The Human Condition of the Leader,
made up images of the most intimate moments in
the life of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Exhibition of Parisian interior design schools
(Boulle) and fashion schools (Duperré), with
young designers Camille Gasser, Clotilde Merlet,
Elie Gillet, Guillaume Corbin, Nicolas Blas, Pola
Tocquer and Quentin Maurin.
Installation by Étienne Rey, who explores the
notion of space.
THROUGHOUT MAY
ALIANZA FRANCESA DEL PRADO
Exhibition by Cuban artist Anabel Cairo, who lives
in France sicne 2006.
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Exhibition Cuadros Mesas, las artes de la mesa y del
diseño. The best French designers of the principal
makers of tableware designed ten tables that are
presented as pictures evoking different foods.
MAY 5, 8PM
FÁBRICA DE ARTE CUBANO
Opening of “Water Light Graffitti” in the presence
of Antonuin Fourneau.
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PAGE 51
MAY 6, 5PM
MUSEO NAPOLEÓNICO
MAY 19, 3PM
MUSEO NAPOLEÓNICO
Charlotte Corday y el animal, by Andrea Doimeadiós
Peralta and Martha Luisa Hernández Cadenas,
based on Charlotte Corday. Poema dramático.
MAY 20, 5PM
CASA VÍCTOR HUGO
MAY 7-JUNE 7
CASA VÍCTOR HUGO
Exhibition Variations on a Baroque Concert,
by Ernest Pignon-Ernest, with large-scale
reproductions of portraits of the musicians
mentioned in Alejo Carpentier’s novel Concierto
barroco.
MAY 12, 10AM
MUSEO NAPOLEÓNICO
Lecture The Human Condition of a Leader, in color,
by Hilda Pérez de Peñamil.
MAY 12, 6PM
BASÍLICA MENOR DE SAN FRANCISCO DE ASÍS
Concert by Barbara Hendricks.
Lyrical concert Marie Galante o El exilio sin
retorno, adapted, sung and orchestrated by Kurt
Weill. Special performance by soprano Emilie
Pictet and Cuban pianist Giovanni Duarte.
MAY 21, 8PM
FÁBRICA DE ARTE CUBANO
Concert Chassol, closing ceremony of the French
Film Festival.
MAY 24, 3PM
MUSEO NAPOLEÓNICO
Lecture Napoleón, First Consul, by specialists from
the restoration Department of the Office of The
City Historian.
MAY 24, 4PM
CASA VÍCTOR HUGO
MAY 12, 9PM
FÁBRICA DE ARTE CUBANO
Opening of the exhibition by Georges Rousse, who
will be present.
MAY 14, 7:30PM
GRAN TEATRO DE LA HABANA ALICIA ALONSO
Opening of the Design Biennial.
MAY 14, 10:30PM
Fashion show Wake Up!, Cuban Trashion
Screening and debate of the film El siglo de las
luces, by Cuban filmmaker Humberto Solás.
MAY 25, 8PM
TEATRO MELLA
Grand finale of the French Song Competition.
MAY 26, 2PM
CASA VÍCTOR HUGO
Lecture Carpentier and the pictorial vanguard
by Dr. Graziella Pogolotti, president of the Alejo
Carpentier Foundation.
MAY 18, 10AM
CENTRO CULTURAL BERTOLT BRECHT
Opening of the exhibition Decorative Arts in the
Napoleonic Empires.
MAY 28, 4PM
PLAZA VIEJA
Made in Habana by Joanne Leighton.
MAY 18, 6PM
SALA IGNACIO CERVANTES
Lyrical concert Marie Galante o El exilio sin retorno,
with the performances of French soprano Emilie
Pictet, the Gran Teatro Alicia Alonso Orchestra
and reciter Toni Piñera.
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Lecture The power of Images by Anabel Caraballo
and René González.
MAY 31
LAB.26
Closing ceremony of the French Culture Month.
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PAGE 52
French Film Festival
THROUGHOUT MAY
CHAPLIN, YARA, LA RAMPA AND MULTICINE INFANTA SALA 1
THEATERS IN HAVANA
CINE CHARLES CHAPLIN
MAY 4
5PM
Unos
días
para
rétablissement!)
recordar
8PM
Fui banquero (J’étais banquier)
(Bon
MAY 5
5PM
Mustang
8PM
Joven y bella (Jeune & jolie)
MAY 6
5PM/
8PM
Marguerite
MAY 7
2PM /
5PM
Conexión Marsella (La French)
5PM
La próxima vez apuntaré al corazón (La
prochaine fois je viserai le cœur)
MAY 8
2PM /
5PM
La próxima vez apuntaré al corazón (La
prochaine fois je viserai le cœur)
8PM
Conexión Marsella (La French)
MAY 10
MAY 15
5PM
Diplomacia (Diplomatie)
2PM
La familia Bélier (La famille Bélier)
8PM
La profesora de historia (Les héritiers)
5PM
Los recuerdos (Les souvenirs)
8PM
Edén (Éden)
MAY 11
5PM
La profesora de historia (Les héritiers)
8PM
Diplomacia (Diplomatie)
MAY 12
5PM/
8PM
Hipócrates (Hippocrate)
MAY 17
5PM
Por primera vez (Toute première fois)
8PM
Bandas de chicas (Bandes de Filles)
MAY 18
5PM
Bandas de chicas (Bandes de Filles)
8PM
Por primera vez (Toute première fois)
MAY 13
5PM/
8PM
El precio de la fama (La rançon de la gloire)
MAY 14
2PM
Edén (Éden)
5PM
La familia Bélier (La famille Bélier)
8PM
Los recuerdos (Les souvenirs)
lahabana
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 53
CINE YARA
MAY 4
MAY 16
1PM /
4:30
Mustang
1PM /
4:30
El outsider (L’Outsider)
MAY 17
Conexión Marsella (La French)
MAY 18
1PM /
4:30
3PM /
8PM
MAY 5
4:30 /
8PM
MAY 6
4:30 /
8PM
Diplomacia (Diplomatie)
MAY 7
El precio de la fama (La rançon de la gloire)
Edén (Éden)
1PM /
4:30
Edén (Éden)
3PM /
8PM
El precio de la fama (La rançon de la gloire)
MAY 19
1PM /
4:30
Unos
días
para
rétablissement!)
recordar
3PM /
8PM
Joven y bella (Jeune & jolie)
(Bon
MAY 8
1PM /
4:30
Mustang
3PM /
8PM
La ley del mercado (La loi du marché)
MAY 20
1PM /
4:30
Joven y bella (Jeune & jolie)
3PM /
8PM
Unos
días
para
rétablissement!)
recordar
(Bon
MAY 10
1PM /
4:30
Bandas de chicas (Bandes de Filles)
3PM /
8PM
Los recuerdos (Les souvenirs)
MAY 21
1PM /
4:30
Marguerite
1PM /
4:30
Los recuerdos (Les souvenirs)
3PM /
8PM
La próxima vez apuntaré al corazón (La
prochaine fois je viserai le cœur)
3PM /
8PM
Bandas de chicas (Bandes de Filles)
MAY 11
1PM /
4:30
La próxima vez apuntaré al corazón (La
prochaine fois je viserai le cœur)
3PM /
8PM
Marguerite
CINE LA RAMPA
MAY 4
5PM
Día de fiesta (Jour de fete)
8PM
Por primera vez (Toute première fois)
MAY 12
4:30 /
8PM
La familia Bélier (La famille Bélier)
MAY 13
4:30 /
8PM
La profesora de historia (Les héritiers)
5PM
Pépe le Moko
8PM
La ley del mercado (La loi du marché)
MAY 6
MAY 14
1PM / Hipócrates (Hippocrate)
4:30
3PM /
8PM
MAY 5
Por primera vez (Toute première fois)
MAY 15
1PM /
4:30
Por primera vez (Toute première fois)
3PM /
8PM
Hipócrates (Hippocrate)
lahabana
5PM
El alegre mes de mayo (Le joli mai)
8:30
Edén (Éden)
MAY 7
5PM
Los paraguas de Cherburgo
8:30
Fui banquero (J’étais banquier)
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 54
CINE LA RAMPA
MULTICINE INFANTA SALA 1
MAY 8
MAY 4
5PM
French Cancan
8PM
Fui banquero (J’étais banquier)
5PM /
8PM
MAY 5
MAY 10
5PM
Lejos de Vietnam (Loin du Vietnam)
8PM
Mustang
Melodrama (Mélo)
8:30
Joven y bella (Jeune & jolie)
5PM /
8PM
La profesora de historia (Les héritiers)
Bandas de chicas (Bandes de Filles)
MAY 7
5PM /
8PM
Por primera vez (Toute première fois)
MAY 8
MAY 12
5PM
Capitán Conan (Capitaine Conan)
8:30
Unos días para recordar
5PM
Los paraguas de Cherburgo
8:30
Marguerite
5PM /
8PM
Día de fiesta (Jour de fete)
8:30
Conexión Marsella (La French)
Hipócrates (Hippocrate)
Conexión Marsella (La French)
MAY 11
5PM /
8PM
MAY 14
5PM
5PM /
8PM
MAY 9
MAY 13
Edén (Éden)
MAY 12
5PM /
8PM
Los recuerdos (Les souvenirs)
MAY 13
MAY 15
4:30 /
8PM
5PM /
8PM
MAY 6
MAY 11
5PM
Diplomacia (Diplomatie)
Bandas de chicas (Bandes de Filles)
5PM /
8PM
Unos
días
para
rétablissement!)
recordar
(Bon
MAY 14
MAY 17
5PM
La profesora de historia (Les héritiers)
8:30
Hipócrates (Hippocrate)
Joven y bella (Jeune & jolie) (Jeune & jolie)
MAY 15
MAY 18
5PM /
8PM
5PM
Los recuerdos (Les souvenirs)
8:30
La próxima vez apuntaré al corazón
lahabana
5PM /
8PM
La próxima vez apuntaré al corazón (La
prochaine fois je viserai le cœur)
MAY 17 & 18
5PM /
8PM
La familia Bélier (La famille Bélier)
Cuba's Digital Destination
PAGE 55
HAVANA’S
best places to eat
Los Mercaderes
EL ATELIER
BELLA CIAO
CAFÉ BOHEMIA
CAFÉ LAURENT
EXPERIMENTAL FUSION
HOMELY ITALIAN
CAFÉ
SPANISH/MEDITERRANEAN
Interesting décor, interesting
menu.
Great service, good prices. A
real home from home.
Bohemian feel. Great
sandwiches, salads & juices
Attractive penthouse
restaurant with breezy
terrace.
Calle 5 e/ Paseo y 2, Vedado
(+53) 7-836-2025
Calle 19 y 72, Playa
(+53) 7-206-1406
Calle San Ignacio #364, Habana
Vieja
Calle M #257, e/ 19 y 21, Vedado
(+53) 7-831-2090
LOS MERCADERES
CUBAN-CREOLE
Beautiful colonial house.
Polpular place whit great food
and good service.
Calle Mercaderes No. 207 altos e/
Lamparilla y Amargura. H.Vieja
(+53) 7861 2437
OTRA MANERA
CASA MIGLIS
EL CHANCHULLERO
INTERNATIONAL
SWEDISH-CUBAN FUSION
SPANISH/MEDITERRANEAN
Beautiful modern decor.
Interesting menu and good
service.
Calle #35 e/ 20 y 41, Playa.
(+53) 7-203-8315
Oasis of good food & taste in
Centro Habana
Fabulous value hole in the
wall tapas. Trendy.
Lealtad #120 e/ Ánimas y
Lagunas, Centro Habana
(+53) 7-864-1486
Teniente Rey #457 bajos, Plaza del
Cristo, Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-872-8227
EL COCINERO
CORTE PRÍNCIPE
RÍO MAR
D.EUTIMIA
INTERNACIONAL
ITALIAN
INTERNATIONAL
CUBAN/CREOLE
Industrial chic alfresco
rooftop with a buzzing
atmosphere
Sergio’s place. Simple décor,
spectacular food.
Contemporary décor. Great
sea-view. Good food.
Absolutely charming.
Excellent Cuban/creole food.
Calle 26, e/ 11 y 13, Vedado.
(+53) 7-832-2355
Calle 9na esq. a 74, Miramar
(+53) 5-255-9091
Ave. 3raA y Final #11, La Puntilla,
Miramar
(+53) 7-209-4838
Callejón del Chorro #60C, Plaza
de la Catedral, Habana Vieja
(+53) 7 861 1332
LA FONTANA
INTERNACIONAL
HABANA MÍA
INTERNATIONAL GOURMET
IVÁN CHEF
SPANISH
EL LITORAL
INTERNATIONAL
Consistently good food,
attentive service. Old school.
Endless summer nights.
Excellent food and service.
Brilliantly creative and rich
food.
Watch the world go by at the
Malecón’s best restaurant.
Calle 46 #305 esq. a 3ra, Miramar
(+53) 7-202-8337
Paseo #7 altos e/ 1ra y 3ra.
Vedado
(+53) 7-830-2287
Aguacate #9 esq. a Chacón,
Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-863-9697
Malecón #161 e/ K y L, Vedado
(+53) 7-830-2201
SANTY
SUSHI/ORIENTAL
NAZDAROVIE
SOVIET
ITALIAN
Authentic fisherman’s shack
servicing world-class sushi.
Well designed Soviet décor
excellent food & service.
Calle 240A #3023 esq. a 3ra C,
Jaimanitas
(+53) 5-286-7039
Malecon #25, 3rd floor e Prado y
Carcel, Centro Habana
(+53) 7-860-2947
lahabana
NERO DI SEPPIA
The new location for
Havana’s best pizza chef,
Walter. Same food, great
locale.
Calle 6 #122 e/ 1a y 3a, Miramar
(+53) 5-478-7871
Cuba's Digital Destination
SAN CRISTÓBAL
CUBAN/CREOLE
Deservedly popular.
Consistently great food.
Kitsch décor.
San Rafael #469 e/ Lealtad y
Campanario, Centro Habana
(+53) 7-860-9109
El Litoral
Style of food
TOP PICK
International
CostExpensive
Type of place Private (Paladar)
Best for Quality décor, good service and great food.
Best new place recently opened.
Don’t Miss Drinking a cocktail at sunset watching the
world go by on the Malecón
Malecón #161 e/ K y L, Vedado.
(+53) 7-830-2201
Nazdarovie
Style of food
TOP PICK
Soviet
CostModerate
Type of place Private (Paladar)
Best for Getting a flavor of Cuban-Soviet history along
with babuska’s traditional dishes in a classy locale.
Don’t miss Vodka sundowners on the gorgeous terrace
overlooking the malecon.
Malecon #25 3rd floor e/ Prado y Carcel, Centro Habana
(+53) 7-860-2947
Santy
Style of food
TOP PICK
Sushi
CostModerate
Type of place Private (Paladar)
Best for Fabulous sushi, wonderful ambience
overlooking fishing boats heading out to sea. World
class.
Don’t miss Getting a reservation here.
Calle 240A #3023 esq. 3raC, Jaimanitas
(+53) 5-286-7039
La
Guarida
www.laguarida.com
TOP PICK
Style of food: Contemporary fusion
Cost: Expensive
Type of place: Private (Paladar)
Best for Authentic, charming and intimate atmosphere
in Cuba’s best known restaurant. Great food,
professional. Classy.
Don’t Miss Uma Thurman, Beyoncé or the Queen of
Spain if they happen to be dining next to you.
Concordia #418 e/ Gervasio y Escobar, Centro Habana.
(+53) 7-866-9047
lahabana
Cuba's Digital Destination
Café Bohemia
Style of food
TOP PICK
Traditional
CostModerate
Type of place Private (Paladar)
Best for taking a break from long walks and seeking
shelter from the stifling Cuban.
Don’t miss location in the cool inner courtyard of the
colonial building.
Ground floor of the Palacio de la Casa del Conde de Lombillo,
Calle San Ignacio #364
(+53) 5- 403-1 568, (+53) 7-836-6567
www.havanabohemia.com
Iván Chef Justo
Style of food
TOP PICK
Spanish
CostExpensive
Type of place Private (Paladar)
Best for Spectacular innovative food. Light and airy
place where it always seems to feel like Springtime.
Don’t Miss The lightly spiced grilled mahi-mahi served
with organic tomato relish. Try the suckling pig and stay
for the cuatro leches.
Aguacate #9, Esq. Chacón, Habana Vieja.
(+53) 7-863-9697 / (+53) 5-343-8540
Los Mercaderes
Style of food
TOP PICK
Cuban creole
CostModerate
Type of place Private (Paladar)
Best for Beautiful colonial house. Polpular place whit
great food and good service.
Don’t miss Wonderfull balcony view to the clasic street.
Calle Mercaderes No. 207 altos e/ Lamparilla y Amargura.
Habana Vieja
(+53) 7861 2437 y (+53) 5290 1531
Casa Miglis
Style of food
TOP PICK
Swedish-Cuban fusion
CostExpensive
Type of place Private (Paladar)
Best for The beautifully designed interior, warm
ambience and Miglis’s personality create the feeling of
an oasis in Central Havana.
Don’t Miss Chatting with Mr Miglis. The Skaargan
prawns, beef Chilli and lingonberries.
Lealtad #120 e/ Ánimas y Lagunas, Centro Habana
(+53) 7-864-1486
www.casamiglis.com
lahabana
Cuba's Digital Destination
HAVANA’S
best Bars & Clubs
TRADITIONAL BARS
EL FLORIDITA
Hemingway’s daiquiri bar.
Touristy but always full of life.
Great cocktails.
Obispo #557 esq. a Monserrate,
Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-867-1299
1950S
TRADITIONALS
SLOPPY JOE’S
BAR
CERVECERÍA
ANTIGUO ALMACÉN DE LA
MADERA Y EL TABACO
GUEST PERFORMERS INCLUDE
BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB
MEMBERS
Recently (beautifully)
renovated. Full of history.
Popular. Lacks a little ‘grime’.
Sociedad Rosalía de Castro, Egido
504 e/ Monte y Dragones, Old
Havana
(+53) 5-270-5271
Ánimas esq. a Zulueta, Habana
Vieja
Microbrewery located
overlooking the restored
docks Simply brilliant.
Avenida del Puerto y San Ignacio,
La Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-866-7157
CONTEMPORARY BARS
EL COCINERO
ESPACIOS
TABARISH
FAC
Fabulous rooftop setting,
great service, cool vibe.
Laid back contemporary bar
with a real buzz in the back
beer-garden.
A comfortable place to chat
/ hang out with your friends.
Great service.
Calle 26 e/ 11 y 13, Vedado
(+53) 7-832-2355
Calle 10 #510, e/ 5ta y 31,
Miramar
(+53) 7-836-3031
Calle 20 #503, e/ 5ta y 7ma.
(+53) 7-202-9188
X Alfonso’s new cultural
center. Great concerts, funky
young scene.
Calle 26 e/ 11 y 13, Vedado
(next to the Puente de Hierro)
(+53) 5-329-6325
www.facebook.com/fabrica.
deartecubano
CONTEMPORARY BARS/CLUBS
DON CANGREJO
Love it/hate it—this is the
oldest Friday night party
place and is still going strong.
Outdoor by the sea.
Ave. 1ra e/ 16 & 18, Miramar
(+53) 7-204-3837
BOLABANA
Packed night after night with
a young dressed-up clientele
wanting to party. Don’t go
looking for Buena Vista Social
Club!
Calle 39 esq. 50, Playa
(+53) 5 -294-3572
CORNER CAFÉ
Great live music every day.
very frequently by locals.
Good tapas.
Calle B e/ 1ra y 3ra. Plaza de la
Revolución
(+53) 7837 1220
SANGRI-LA
For the cool kids. Basement
bar/club which gets packed
at weekends.
Ave. 21 e/ 36 y 42, Miramar
(+53) 7-264-8343
GAY-FRIENDLY
CABARET
LAS VEGAS
Can get dark and smoky but great
drag show (11pm) from Divino—one
of Cuba’s most accomplished drag
acts.
Ave. 21 e/ 36 y 42, Miramar
(+53) 7-264-8343
lahabana
FASHION BAR
HAVANA
A superb example of queer class
meets camp, accompanied by a
fantastic floor show.
San Juan de Dios, esq. a Aguacate,
Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-867-1676
Cuba's Digital Destination
CAFÉ BAR
MADRIGAL
Pop décor, fancy cocktails, and the
staff’s supercilious attitude, this
is a gathering spot for all types of
folks.
Calle 17 #809 e/ 2 y 4, Vedado
(+53) 7-831-2433
Corner Café
TOP PICK
CONTEMPORARY BAR/CLUBS
Best for Frequently by locals. Great tapas.
Don’t Miss Live music every day.
Calle B e/ 1ra y 3ra. Plaza de la Revolución
(+53) 5-264-8343
Espacios
TOP PICK
CONTEMPORARY BAR/CLUBS
Best for Laid back lounge atmosphere in the garden
area which often has live music. Good turnover of
people.
Don’t Miss Ray Fernandez, Tony Avila, Yasek Mazano
playing live sets in the garden.
Calle 10 #510 e/ 5ta y 31, Miramar
(+53) 7-202-2921
Sangri-La
TOP PICK
CONTEMPORARY BAR/CLUBS
Best for Hanging out with the cool kids on the Havana
Farundula in the most popular bar/club.
Don’t Miss The best gin and tonic in Havana.
Ave. 21 e/ 36 y 42, Miramar
(+53) 5-264-8343
Bolabana
TOP PICK
CONTEMPORARY
Best for Trendy new location near Salón Rosado de la
Tropical
Don’t Miss Hipsters meet the Havana Farándula
Calle 39 esq. 50, Playa
lahabana
Cuba's Digital Destination
Sloppy Joe´s Bar
TOP PICK
BAR / TRADITIONAL
Best for Immense original bar lovingly
restored. Good service, History.
Worst for Not quite grimy. Too clean.
Ánimas, esq. Zulueta La Habana Vieja,
(07) 866-7157
Fábrica de Arte
TOP PICK
CONTEMPORARY BAR
Best for X Alfonso’s superb new cultural center has
something for everyone
Don’t Miss Artists who exhibit work should
demonstrate ongoing creativity and a commitment
for social transformation.
Calle 26 e/ 11 y 13, Vedado
(next to the Puente de Hierro)
Fashion Bar
Havana
TOP PICK
GAY FRIENDLY
Best for A superb example of queer class meets camp,
accompanied by a fantastic floor show.
Don’t Miss The staff performing after 11pm
San Juan de Dios, esq. a Aguacate, Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-867-1676
Bertolt Brecht
TOP PICK
CONTEMPORARY BAR/CLUBS
Best for Hanging out with hip & funky Cubans who
like their live music.
Don’t Miss Interactivo playing on a Wednesday
evening.
Calle 13 e/ I y J, Vedado
(+53) 7-830-1354
lahabana
Cuba's Digital Destination
Basílica Menor de San Francisco de Asís
HAVANA’S
best live music venues
CONCERT VENUES
KARL MARX
THEATRE
World class musicians
perform prestigious concerts
in Cuba’s best equipped
venue.
Calle 1ra esq. a 10, Miramar
(+53) 7-203-0801
BASÍLICA SAN
FRANCISCO DE
ASÍS
A truly beautiful church,
which regularly hosts
fabulous classical music
concerts.
Oficios y Amargura, Plaza de San
Francisco de Asís, Habana Vieja
FÁBRICA DE
ARTE
SALA
COVARRUBIAS
X Alfonso’s new cultural
center. Great concerts inside
(small and funky) and outside
(large and popular!).
Calle 26 e/ 11 y 13, Vedado (next to
the Puente de Hierro)
TEATRO NACIONAL
Recently renovated, one
of Cuba’s most prestigious
venues for a multitude of
events.
Paseo y 39, Plaza de la Revolución.
JAZZ
CAFÉ JAZZ
MIRAMAR
LA ZORRA Y
EL CUERVO
JAZZ CAFÉ
Clean, modern and atmospheric.
Where Cuba’s best musicians jam
and improvise.
A staple of Havana’s jazz scene,
the best jazz players perform here.
Somewhat cold atmosphere-wise.
Cine Teatro Miramar
10:30pm – 2am
Ave. 5ta esq. a 94, Miramar
Galerías de Paseo
Ave. 1ra e/ Paseo y A, Vedado
Intimate and atmospheric, this
basement jazz club, which you
enter through a red telephone box,
is Cuba’s most famous.
Calle 23 e/ N y O, Vedado
(+53) 7-833-2402
SALSA/TIMBA
CAFÉ CANTANTE
MI HABANA
Attracts the best Cuban
musicians. Recently
renovated with an excellent
new sound system.
Ave. Paseo esq. a 39, Plaza de la
Revolución
(+53) 7-878-4273
lahabana
CASA DE LA
MÚSICA
CASA DE LA
MÚSICA
CENTRO HABANA
MIRAMAR
SALÓN ROSADO
DE LA TROPICAL
A little rough around the
edges but spacious. For better
or worse, this is ground zero
for the best in Cuban salsa.
Smaller and more up-market
than its newer twin in Centro
Habana. An institution in the
Havana salsa scene.
The legendary beer garden
where Arsenio tore it up.
Look for a salsa/timba gig
on a Sat night and a Sun
matinee.
Galiano e/ Neptuno y Concordia,
Centro Habana
(+53) 7-860-8296/4165
Calle 20 esq. a 35, Miramar
(+53) 7-204-0447
Ave. 41 esq. a 46, Playa
Times: varies wildly
(+53) 7-203-5322
Cuba's Digital Destination
CONTEMPORARY
CAFÉ TATRO
BERTOLT BRECHT
Think MTV Unplugged when
musicians play. Hip, funky
and unique with an artsy
Cuban crowd.
Calle 13 e/ I y J, Vedado
(+53) 7-830-1354
DON CANGREJO
EL SAUCE
Love it/hate it—this is the
oldest Friday night party
place and is still going strong.
Outdoor by the sea.
Great outdoor concert
venue to hear the best in
contemporary & Nueva Trova
live in concert.
Ave. 1ra e/ 16 y 18, Miramar
(+53) 7-204-3837
Ave. 9na #12015 e/ 120 y 130,
Playa
(+53) 7-204-6428
TEATRO DE
BELLAS ARTES
Small intimate venue inside
Cuba’s most prestigious arts
museum. Modern.
Trocadero e/ Zulueta y
Monserrate, Habana Vieja.
TROVA & TRADITIONAL
BARBARAM
PEPITO´S BAR
Some of the best Cuban
Nueva Trova musicians
perform in this small and
intimate environment.
Calle 26 esq. a Ave. del Zoológico.
Nuevo Vedado
(+53) 7-881-1808
lahabana
GATO TUERTO
Late night place to hear
fabulous bolero singers. Can
get smoky.
Calle O entre 17 y 19, Vedado
(+53) 7-833-2224
TRADICIONALES
DE LOS 50
SALÓN 1930
COMPAY SEGUNDO
The 1950s traditionals, a
project created over 10 years
ago, pays tribute to the
Golden Era of Cuban music:
the 1950s.
Buena Vista Social Club
style set in the grand Hotel
Nacional.
Sociedad Rosalia de Castro, Egido
#504 e/ Monte y Dragones,
Havana Vieja
(+53) 7-861-7761
Hotel Nacional
Calle O esq. a 21, Vedado
(+53) 7-835-3896
Cuba's Digital Destination
HAVANA’S Best Hotels
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
SIMPLY THE BEST…
IBEROSTAR
PARQUE CENTRAL
Luxury hotel overlooking
Parque Central
Neptuno e/ Prado y Zulueta,
Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-860-6627
SANTA ISABEL
Luxurious historic mansion
facing Plaza de Armas
Narciso López, Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-860-8201
SARATOGA
TERRAL
Stunning view from roof-top
pool. Beautiful décor.
Wonderful ocean front
location. Newly renovated.
Paseo del Prado #603 esq. a
Dragones, Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-860-8201
Malecón esq. a Lealtad, Centro
Habana
(+53) 7-862-8061
BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN OLD HAVANA
FLORIDA
Beautifully restored colonial
house.
Obispo #252, esq. a Cuba, Habana
Vieja
(+53) 7-862-4127
PALACIO DEL
MARQUÉS...
Cuban baroque meets
modern minimalist
Oficios #152 esq. a Amargura,
Habana Vieja
BUSINESS HOTELS
MELIÁ COHÍBA
MELIÁ HABANA
Oasis of polished marble and
professional calm.
Attractive design & extensive
facilities.
Ave Paseo e/ 1ra y 3ra, Vedado
(+53) 7- 833-3636
Ave. 3ra y 70, Miramar
(+53) 5-204-8500
HOSTAL VALENCIA
Immensely charming, great
value.
Oficios #53 esq. a Obrapía,
Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-867-1037
OCCIDENTAL
MIRAMAR
CONDE DE
VILLANUEVA
Delightfully small and
intimate. For cigar lovers.
Mercaderes #202, Lamparilla
(+53) 7-862-9293
H10 HABANA
PANORAMA
Good value, large spacious
modern rooms.
Cascades of glass. Good wifi. Modern.
Ave. 5ta. e/ 70 y 72, Miramar
(+53) 7-204-3583
Ave. 3ra. y 70, Miramar
(+53) 7 204-0100
FOR A SENSE OF HISTORY
AMBOS MUNDOS
MERCURE SEVILLA
A must for Hemingway
aficionados
Stunning views from the roof
garden restaurant.
Calle Obispo #153 esq. a
Mercaderes, Habana Vieja
(+53) 7- 860-9529
Trocadero #55 entre Prado y
Zulueta, Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-860-8560
HOTEL NACIONAL
Eclectic art-deco
architecture. Gorgeous
gardens.
Calle O esq. a 21, Vedado
(+53) 7-835 3896
RIVIERA
Spectacular views over wavelashed Malecón
Paseo y Malecón, Vedado
(+53) 7-836-4051
ECONOMICAL/BUDGET HOTELS
BOSQUE
DEAUVILLE
SAINT JOHN’S
VEDADO
On the banks of the Río
Almendares.
Lack of pretension, great
location.
Lively disco, tiny quirky pool.
Popular.
Good budget option with a
bit of a buzz
Calle 28-A e/ 49-A y 49-B,
Reparto Kohly, Playa
(+53) 7-204-9232
Galiano e/ Sán Lázaro y Malecón,
Centro Habana
(+53) 7-866-8812
Calle O e/ 23 y 25, Vedado
(+53) 7-833-3740
Calle O e/ 23 y 25, Vedado
(+53) 7-836-4072
lahabana
Cuba's Digital Destination
HAVANA’S
best private
places to stay
Sueño Cubano
MID RANGE - CASA PARTICULAR (B&B)
1932
MIRAMAR 301
Visually stunning, historically
fascinating. Welcoming.
Campanario #63 e/ San Lázaro y
Laguna, Centro Habana
(+53) 7-863-6203
LUXURY HOUSE
4 bedrooms private luxury
villa with swimming pool
HABANA
JULIO Y ELSA
Beautiful colonial townhouse
with great location.
Cluttered bohemian feel.
Hospitable.
Calle Habana #209, e/
Empedrado, y Tejadillo, Habana
Vieja.
(+53) 7-861-0253
Consulado #162 e/ Colón y
Trocadero, Centro Habana
( +53) 7-861-8027
UP-SCALE B&BS (BOUTIQUE HOSTALS)
SUEÑO CUBANO
Old palace carefully restored,
seven rooms, suites with
bathrooms and featuring 24
hour service.
Calle Santa Clara número 66 entre
Oficios e Inquisidor. Habana Vieja
(+53) 78660109
(+39) 339 1817730
CAÑAVERAL HOUSE
VITRALES
CASA ESCORIAL
But undoubtedly the most
beautiful about private homes
in Cuba
Hospitable, attractive and
reliable boutique B&B with 9
bedrooms.
Attractive accomodations
with a panoramic view of
Plaza Vieja
39A street, #4402, between 44 y
46, Playa, La Habana Cuba
(+53) 295-5700
Habana #106 e/ Cuarteles y
Chacón, Habana Vieja
(+53) 7-866-2607
Mercaderes # 315 apt 3 e/
Muralla y Teniente Rey, Plaza
Vieja, Habana Vieja
(+53) 5-268 6881; 5-278 6148
APARTMENT RENTALS
BOHEMIA BOUTIQUE
APARTMENTS
Gorgeous 1-bedroom
apartment beautifully
decorated apartment
overlooking Plaza Vieja.
San Ignacio #364 e/ Muralla y
Teniente Rey, Plaza Vieja
(+53) 5- 403-1 568
(+53) 7-836-6567
www.havanabohemia.com
CASA CONCORDIA
Beautifully designed
and spacious 3 bedroom
apartment. Spanish colonial
interiors with cheerful, arty
accents.
Concordia #151 apto. 8 esq. a San
Nicolás, Centro Habana
(+53) 5-254-5240
www.casaconcordia.net
LUXURY HOUSES
VILLASOL
CASABLANCA
Rent Room elegant and wellequipped. Beautiful wild
garden and great pool.
Elegant well-equipped villa
formerly owned by Fulgencio
Batista. Beautiful wild garden.
Calle 17 #1101 e/ 14 y 16, Vedado
(+34) 677525361
(+53) 7-832-1927
(+53) 5-360-0456
Morro-Cabaña Park. House #29
(+53) 5-294-5397
www.havanacasablanca.com
lahabana
TROPICANA
PENTHOUSE
A luxurious penthouse
with huge roof terrace and
breath-taking 360 degree
views of Havana and the
ocean.
Galiano #60 Penthouse Apt.10 e/
San Lázaro y Trocadero
(+53) 5-254-5240
www.tropicanapenthouse.com
MICHAEL AND
MARÍA ELENA
This leafy oasis in western
Havana has an attractive
mosaic tiled pool and three
modern bedrooms.
Calle 66 #4507 e/ 45 y Final,
Playa
(+53) 7-209-0084
Cuba's Digital Destination
SUITE HAVANA
Elegant 2-bedroom
apartment in restored
colonial building. Quality loft
style décor.
Lamparilla #62 altos e/
Mercaderes y San Ignacio,
Habana Vieja
(+53) 5-829-6524
RESIDENCIA
MARIBY
A sprawling vanilla-hued
mansion with 6 rooms
decorated with colonial-era
lamps, and Louis XV furniture
Vedado.
(+53) 5-370-5559
TOP PICK
Bohemia Boutique
Apartments Red
Best for 3 small balconies (facing the Patio of the
Palace), 1 spacious bedroom with air conditioning
Don’t Miss The apartment is fully furbished, plenty of
light and very well ventilated.
San Ignacio #364 e/ Muralla y Teniente Rey, Plaza Vieja,
Habana Vieja [email protected]
(+53) 5 4031 568: (53) 7 8366 567
www.havanabohemia.com
TOP PICK
Bohemia Boutique
Apartments Blue
Best for i1 internal balcony, 1 spacious bedroom on the
mezzanine with air conditioning.
Don’t Miss The apartment is fully furbished, plenty of
light and very well ventilated.
San Ignacio #364 e/ Muralla y Teniente Rey, Plaza Vieja,
Habana Vieja [email protected]
(+53) 5 4031 568: (53) 7 8366 567
www.havanabohemia.com
Sueño Cubano
TOP PICK
Best for Old palace carefully restored, seven rooms,
suites with bathrooms and featuring 24 hour service.
Don’t Miss Relax at any of the four terraces, feel the
mellow touch of antique and original Cuban furniture.
Calle Santa Clara número 66 entre Oficios e Inquisidor.
Habana Vieja
(+53) 78660109
(+39) 339 1817730
www.suenocubano.com correo [email protected]
Cañaveral House
TOP PICK
Best for Large elegant villa away from downtown
Havana. Great for families or groups of friends.
Don’t Miss Basking in the sun as you stretch out on
the lawn of the beautifully kept garden.
39A street, #4402, between 44 y 46, Playa, La Habana Cuba
(+53) 295-5700
http://www.cubaguesthouse.com
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Cuba's Digital Destination
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