Meet the Teachers
Leading Cuban dancers sharing their passion and expertise
Damarys Farres
The Heartbeat of Cuban Dance & Culture in the UK
A dancer, choreographer, teacher, and the official Son Cubano ambassador in the UK. She founded The Cuban School of Arts, creating a vibrant hub for Cuban dance, music and culture. Damarys has pioneered numerous initiatives, including the UK's first Son Cubano Festival, ensuring the rich traditions of Cuban dance and music thrive. Her events offer authentic experiences that transport participants to the heart of Cuba.
Sergio Larrinaga
The Afro-Cuban Master
A renowned Cuban dancer, choreographer, and teacher, with over three decades of experience in Afro-Cuban and folkloric dance.
He has worked with some of Cuba’s most important cultural institutions, including:
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Conjunto Folklórico Nacional de Cuba (soloist & choreographer)
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University of Havana Folkloric Ensemble (artistic director)
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Teatro Variedades América, Havana (teacher & choreographer)
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Yoruba Andabo (artistic director)
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Italian Federation of Professional Dance (instructor)
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International competition judge
This October marks his first time in London with DCuban School of Arts. A long-time colleague and cultural ally, Sergio joins Aseile 2025 as one of our lead teachers, bringing unmatched knowledge and energy to this year’s training.
One Surprise Guest Teacher!
Meet the DJs
Lineup coming soon!
DJ Flecha
The Master of Cuban Beats
With over 30 years of experience, DJ Flecha has played in more than 50 cities and at renowned festivals like Glastonbury. His deep understanding of Cuban music guarantees an unforgettable experience.
DJ Sacha
The Cambridge Cuban Salsa Legend
With two decades of experience, DJ Sacha is the voice behind the Cambridge Cuban Salsa Podcast, which has garnered over 500,000 downloads worldwide. His sets are a testament to his profound knowledge of Cuban music and dance.
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DJ Javier La Rosa
La Máquina de Cuba
Hailing from Havana, DJ Javier has been a driving force in the UK's Latin music scene. His eclectic mixes of Salsa, Timba, Reggaeton, and Latin Hip-Hop keep the dance floor vibrant and alive.
Meet the Musicians
Lineup coming soon!
Vicky Jassey
The Voice of Ase-iLe Fest
Vicky is the founder of Bombo Productions (UK,
since 2007) and a scholar-musician with a PhD
in Ethnomusicology. She specialises in AfroCuban folkloric music, co-directs Coro de Clave
and Orchestra Bombo, and leads Moving Voices
UK supporting survivors of trafficking. She
performs as a ritual singer with various
ensembles and runs Finca Ara Oko retreat in
Spain with her partner, David Pattman.
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David Pattman
The Master Percussionist
David began as a jazz drummer and percussionist, later co-founding several British salsa bands. He worked in New York and Miami with major Latin artists and has accompanied legends like Omara Portuondo, Cachaito, and Bebo Valdez. He has recorded with Paul McCartney, Jacob Collier, Snowboy, and others, including projects in Cuba. A sworn ritual batá drummer, he has over 25 years’ experience in Cuban folkloric drumming and now focuses on teaching and sharing his knowledge.
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Randy Hechavarria
The Rhythmic Soul
Born in Santiago de Cuba, Randy's percussion style is a vibrant blend of Haitian, West African, and Spanish influences. His dynamic performances have enlivened festivals like Glastonbury and WOMAD, bringing the essence of Cuban music to global audiences.
Meet Our Artists. Our Family.
The heart of Ase-ilé, our exceptional artists. You’ll train with master instructors from Cuba and abroad, including internationally renowned artists like Ivan Valdespino, Héctor Oviedo, and our very own Damarys Farres, each bringing their unique flair and passion.
