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Background Information

In one branch of Afro-Cuban dance known as Bailes de Santería the dancers interpret different Orishas. The Orishas are the deities of the religion, specific to Cuba, known as Santería. Santería had its beginnings during the colonization of Cuba when the slaves syncretised their Yoruban gods with Catholic saints in order to continue practicing their faith unbeknownst to their owners. The interpretation of the Orishas through dance and music has developed into two branches: one is specifically religious and the other is solely artistic. Iré Omó is focussed on presenting the latter.

The principal Orishas, or deities, can be likened to the ancient Greek pantheon of gods in that they each have dominion over specific elements and aspects of nature and in that there exist many myths regarding their interaction with one another. The songs and rhythms narrate different events in the lives of the Orishas or are hymns praising their powers. The dances that accompany this music are pantomimic and specific steps correspond to each rhythm. The dancers wear costumes specific to each Orisha and carry some of the items attributed to them. Some dance movements represent the hunt, others war or divine punishment of wrongdoers and others agricultural activity.

ABOUT IRÉ OMÓ

Iré Omó Afro-Cuban Drum and Dance Ensemble was founded in Toronto in May 2000, under the direction of Cuban teacher dancer and choreographer Sarita Leyva. The ensemble is dedicated to researching and developing the traditions of Afro -Cuban music through the performance and teaching of dances, music and songs of Afro-Cuban origin, such as Yoruba, Congo, Arara, Abakua, Afro Haitian and some other indigenous rhythms of Cuba, (Rumba, Bailes Campesinos, Comparsa, Pilon, Mozambique, etc.).

With roots style singing, drumming and dancing Iré Omó will introduce you to the universe of gods, magic and African-rooted rituals.

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Doors Open: 7:00 pm / Dance Lesson: 9:00 pm / Show Starts: 9:30 pm.

Admission: $25 includes dance lesson.

Reservations for our dinner and show prix fixe guarantee seating. We do not accept a la carte reservations on Fridays and Saturdays.

Cuba Libre Special! Presented by Havana Club.

Lula Cuban Friday

Fri May 16th 

Dance Lesson 9:00 pm with Sarita Leyva.

Lula Cuban Friday 

Fri   Jun 20th 

Dance Lesson 9:00 pm with Sarita Leyva.

Lula Cuban Friday

Fri Jul 18th

Dance Lesson 9:00 pm with Sarita Leyva

Lula Cuban Friday

Fri Aug 15th

Dance Lesson 9:00 pm with Sarita Leyva 

Friday is Cuban night at Lula. Each week, Lula presents the best of Toronto's thriving Cuban music scene. Join us early for dinner and a complimentary beginner dance lesson with Sarita Leyva.

Beginner Salsa Lesson & DJs

You don't need a partner to enjoy our 9:00 pm beginner salsa lesson! Featuring Toronto's top instructors, the class will lead beginners through the salsa basics while more experienced dancers warm up for the best salsa party in town. Between live music sets and until closing time, Lula hosts Toronto's top DJs spinning a dance floor-friendly mix of salsa, merengue, bachata and top 40. 

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Friday Dinner & Show 

https://www.lula.ca/menu

https://www.lula.ca/reservations

or call 416.588.0307

Location:

1585 Dundas Street West, a block and half west of Dufferin on the south side of the street. 

Afro-Cuban Wednesday with Sarita Leyva!

EVERY Wednesday I will take you back to the roots of Salsa! These classes will be dedicated to researching and developing the traditions of Afro-Cuban music and dance as well as promoting authentic Cuban dance and culture in Toronto. Workshops will be 1.5 hours of technique, movement, energy and the history of music, dance, culture.

Price : $25

**Class is OPEN LEVEL. Anyone interested can join.

If you want to improve your Salsa, and connect yourself to the roots of the dance, these are workshops you don't want to miss. Recommended for any dancer that wants to learn history, music, timing, movement, and more.

Every month will be a different workshop exploring Rumba, Orishas and more!

LOCATION: 4132 Dundas St W. M8X 1X3.   Toronto 

TIME: 7:00pm 

416 8542104

 saraleyva@bell.net 

 


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