Rumba Cubana with Damarys in London

Service Description

Join renowned Cuban dancer Damarys Farres this autumn in London for her signature Rumba Cubana Workshop, open to both men and women.

Immerse yourself in one of Cuba’s most vibrant and expressive dance forms — Rumba Cubana. This uplifting workshop will guide you through the rhythm, movement, and essence of Rumba while exploring its cultural meaning, musical structure, and dance connection.

You’ll develop your male and female Rumba technique, musicality, footwork, and partner interaction, all taught with 110% PURE CUBAN FLAVOUR (Puro Sabor Cubano).

What is Rumba Cubana?

Rumba Cubana is a cornerstone of Cuban identity — a rich fusion of African and Spanish influences, rhythm, song, and storytelling. It's a dance of communication and emotion, deeply rooted in the history of Cuban communities, blending rhythm (clave), movement, and playful interaction.

Rumba teaches dancers to feel the music, connect with their partner, and express through rhythm — it’s not just a dance, it’s a way of life.

Styles of Rumba

In this workshop, you’ll explore the three main Rumba styles:

• Yambú: the most graceful and elegant form, danced slowly and smoothly.

• Guaguancó: lively and flirtatious, capturing the playful energy between man and woman.

• Columbia: fast, powerful, and full of improvisation — traditionally a men’s style, now open to all.

Each style reflects different emotions, energies, and stories within Cuban culture.

What You’ll Learn in This 2-Hour Workshop:

• This workshop focuses on building authentic Rumba technique and understanding its musical and cultural roots.It is suitable for all levels — whether you’re new to Rumba or looking to deepen your expression.

  You Will Learn:

• The use of the clave — the heartbeat of Cuban music — and how to recognise its different patterns (3-2 / 2-3).

• How to interpret rhythm and phrasing through your body.

• Body movement, hip work, isolation, and arm styling for both men and women

• The connection between dancer and percussion, learning to respond to the conga, quinto, and vocals.

• The difference between Rumba and other Cuban social dances, and how to integrate Rumba movement and flavour into your Salsa, Son, or Timba dancing.

• Cultural context and significance — understanding Rumba’s role in Cuban identity, resistance, and celebration.

  
  

  Each 2-hour session includes: Hour 1: Rumba technique — rhythm awareness, posture, isolation, footwork, and clave exercises. Hour 2: Creative application — choreography, expression, partner play, and social dancing integration.

  Optional filmed choreography in the final section.A WhatsApp group will be available for sharing music, videos, and cultural resources.

More about Damarys

• DAMARYS FARRES: is a classically trained Cuban dancer, choreographer, and educator. Based in London, she’s the founder of the Cuban School of Arts, a former UK Salsa Champion, and one of the most respected Cuban culture ambassadors worldwide. She’s curated for the BBC, pioneered several Cuban festivals in the UK, and mentored dancers of all levels.

  One of her lifelong passions is Rumba Cubana — she lives and breathes it. Affectionately known as the Queen of Rumba in the UK, Damarys embodies the essence of this art form: strength, sensuality, rhythm, and authenticity.

  Her classes are soulful, technical, and rooted in the heart of Cuban tradition — a space where everyone can feel free to express themselves.

  
  

  🎉 Bonus: Join us afterwards for optional social time — great vibes, connection, and cultural exchange!

  Only 20 spaces available – book early to secure your place.💸 Concessions available (NHS, NUS, single parents with proof). Contact us for a discount code.

Why Join?

• Learn authentic Rumba Cubana from the Queen of Rumba in the UK

• Deepen your understanding of clave, rhythm, and cultural context

• Gain insight into male and female Rumba technique

• Develop your individual and partnered styling

• Learn how to add Rumba movement and flavour into your Salsa, or social dancing

• Explore rhythm and body language through an authentic Afro-Cuban lens

• Develop confidence, rhythm, and authentic sabor.

• Connect with a friendly, inclusive community of dance lovers

Location

Dance studio with mirrors

London – StarTradeStars Studios

A spacious mirrored dance studio ideal for Cuban and Afro-Cuban movement.

Dates

Saturday 15 November 2025, 2:30PM – 4:30PM

Check our calendar for more Cuban dance workshops across London and Brighton.

What to Bring:

• Comfortable dancewear

• Long, wide skirt (for Rumba styling)

  • You can rent or purchase skirts directly from us — please contact us in advance.

• Dance shoes (no grippy soles)

• Water and light refreshments

• Positive energy and openness to explore!

  
  

Why Learn with Us?

Damarys Farres — founder of the Cuban School of Arts, Puro Sabor Cubano Master Workshops, and Aseile Afro-Cuban & Rumba Lab Training — has spent her life preserving and sharing Cuba’s most soulful dances.

Her expertise bridges traditional knowledge and contemporary practice, offering deep insight into Cuba’s cultural roots, rhythm, and expression. Recognised internationally and celebrated as the Queen of Rumba in the UK, she brings unmatched authenticity, skill, and passion to every session.

Her classes combine fun, skill, and authenticity, helping dancers of all levels grow with confidence and connection.

Learn from a master who doesn’t just teach Rumba — she is Rumba.

Special Offer:

• Standard Price: £35

• NUS / NHS & Single mums on Benefits : Only £30 (adv payment only, limited spaces)

  
  

Booking & Payment Information:

Advance Booking: Payments can be made via direct transfer to avoid extra fees.

• Name: Cuban School of Arts

• Branch: HSBC

• Sort code: 40-02-17

• Account: #21570412

• IBAN: GB87HBUK40021721570412

• BIC/SWIFT: HBUKGB4106A

• Reference: Rumba + date + your name

• On the Day: Cash, card, or phone payments are accepted at the door.

Important Reminder:

Please wear comfortable and suitable dance shoes for Rumba movement.

Dress Code: Comfortable or smart-casual attire.

Get Inspired:

Feel the heartbeat of Cuba through Rumba Cubana —a celebration of rhythm, culture, and connection, danced with 110% PURO SABOR CUBANO! 🇨🇺🔥

 🎥