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Meet the Artists - Raices Profundas
Raices Profundas was founded in 1975 and today is widely regarded as one of the world's most authentic performing ensembles in the Yoruba traditions. The dancers and musicians have intense dedication to their company, their art and their traditions. They are enthusiastic about sharing their culture with us, and frequently give one-on-one coaching to our participants during our time in their studio.
The director, Juan de Dios, is highly revered as a teacher and historian, and has been a major influence in conserving, documenting and maintaining Cuban cultural traditions. He began performing Afro-Cuban dance and music as a child, and participated in many ensembles. His academic studies in the arts include La Escuela Nacional de Artes and Centro Nacional de Superacion de la Ensenanza Artistica. In 1962 he joined the Conjunto Folklorico Nacional de Cuba where he performed as principal dancer, percussionist and educator.
Juan has received countless awards of recognition and artistic achievement. His work has included performances and cultural education activities in Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa and the U.S.
