Ban Rarrá Debuts 'Panteón' at the National Theater of Cuba

The cultural scene in Havana sparkles this weekend with the premiere of “Panteón”, the latest production from the Ban Rarrá Folkloric Company. The performances take place on March 21st and 22nd at the iconic Covarrubias Hall of the National Theater of Cuba.

Under the direction of Master Isaias Rojas, this music and dance work delves into Afro-Cuban roots, exploring spirituality and the presence of deities in the national identity. Ban Rarrá, known for its technical rigor and its ability to blend tradition with modernity, reaffirms its position as one of the pillars of folklore on the island with this show.

The Legacy of Ban Rarrá in 2026

The company, which has toured international stages bringing Cuban rhythm all over the world, proposes a visual and sonic journey in “Panteón.” The show includes live music, where batá drums and ancestral chants guide the dancers in a choreography that moves between the sacred and the profane.

This premiere occurs at a time of great ferment for the performing arts in Cuba, despite the logistical challenges the country faces. The Covarrubias Hall, with its acoustics and elegance, provides the perfect setting for a production of this magnitude.

Performance Details

Venue: Covarrubias Hall, National Theater of Cuba (Plaza de la Revolución, Havana).
Dates: Saturday, March 21st and Sunday, March 22nd, 2026.
Time: 7:00 PM (Saturday) / 5:00 PM (Sunday).

The response from the Havana public has been enthusiastic, selling out most of the seats since the initial announcement. “Panteón” is not just a dance show; it is an act of cultural preservation that keeps the flame of African heritage alive in Cuba.

FAQ about Ban Rarrá and ‘Panteón’

1. Who directs the Ban Rarrá Folkloric Company? The company is under the leadership of Master Isaias Rojas, who has been the primary guide of its distinctive style for decades.

2. What is the work ‘Panteón’ about? It is an exploration of the deities of the Yoruba pantheon and their representation in Cuban culture and daily life through dance and music.

3. Is there live music in the show? Yes, one of the characteristics of Ban Rarrá is the use of live percussion and vocals, which brings a unique energy to each presentation.

4. Where can tickets be purchased? Tickets are on sale at the box office of the National Theater of Cuba, located in Plaza de la Revolución.