Acosta Dance Centre Hosts the UK’s Largest Afro Cuban Dance Festival this July

Photo courtesy of Acosta Dance Centre

written by CC Magazine 

“We know how to throw a great party in Cuba – and now we’re bringing that same energy to London. Afro Cuban dance is at the heart of our culture, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone.” 

— Javier Torres, Alafia Director & Managing Director, Acosta Dance Foundation

Step into the rhythm of Afro Cuban culture this summer at Acosta Dance Centre, the UK’s biggest Afro Cuban dance festival — happening July 11 to 13 at the at the center located in South East London.  Opened in 2023, Acosta Dance Centre is a state-of-the-art space for dancers, artists and the local community. It offers public classes, school workshops and programmes that celebrate diverse dance cultures year-round. 

2025 marks the second annual “Alafia” Afro Cuban Dance Festival. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this three-day celebration of movement, music and community is open to all. 

What to Expect

● High-energy Afro Cuban dance workshops led by world-class teachers

● Live Cuban music and performances 

● Salsa, Timba and Conga dancing and workshops

● A vibrant collective of dancers, musicians and cultural lovers 

World-Class Line-Up 

This year the centre welcomes over 15 international artists.

● Domingo Pau – Legendary dance master with a 60-year career 

● Luanda Pau – Acosta Dance Foundation’s Artistic Programmes Manager 

● Other international experts include: Damaris Hechavarria, Niurka Aguero, Maikel Mota, Ariel Rios, Paul Brando, Alexander Barrera, Federica Fusco

Photo courtesy of Acosta Dance Centre

● Live Musicians Include: Martha Galarraga, Julio Molina Pérez, Juan Carlos Angarica, Gerardo de Armas Sarria, Jose Ferrera Mulen, Gaspar Sena and Ohad Lustigman 

[Additional Read: Caribbean Art Duo Make Waves at Miami’s Art Basel]

Schedule Highlights 

Friday, 11 July 

● 6:30pm: Festival opens with live music & DJ 

Saturday, 12 July 

● 10am–6pm: Dance workshops 

● Evening: Salsa Rueda Timba, live band, DJ, Cuban party 

Sunday, 13 July 

● 10am–6pm: Workshops continue 

● Closing: Outdoor celebration with Conga, Timba & live music 

Photo courtesy of Acosta Dance Centre

Ticket Options 

● Full Festival (Workshops + Parties): £275 

● Workshops Only (3 Days): £250 

● 1-Day Pass (Workshops Only): £130 

● 2-Day Pass (Workshops Only): £240 

Photo courtesy of Acosta Dance Centre

Visit Acosta Dance Centre to purchase your ticket and learn more.

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