The renowned choreographer and instructor, José Antonio Chávez Guettón, who was honored with the 2023 National Dance Award, passed away this Sunday in Ciego de Ávila due to a pulmonary embolism, as confirmed by the National Council of Performing Arts.
Previously, Kenny Ortigas Guerrero, head of the Provincial Culture Sector in Camagüey, expressed his sorrow on Facebook: "Heartbroken! Cuban Dance is in mourning... our 2023 National Dance Award winner, José Antonio Chávez Guettón, has passed away today. Fly high Chávez, the pain is immense."
Ortigas mentioned that details of the upcoming posthumous tribute would be announced soon, although social media was already rife with rumors suggesting that the creator's death might have been caused by "one of the viruses" currently affecting the country. Nevertheless, the official statement from the National Council of Performing Arts clarified that his death was due to a pulmonary embolism.
A Pillar of Cuban Dance
Born in Holguín and artistically nurtured in Camagüey, Chávez Guettón had a career spanning over four decades with the Camagüey Ballet, where he crafted works with dramatic intensity such as "Ofelia" and lyrically rich pieces like "Vivaldiana," among many others.
He was part of an exceptional generation of choreographers alongside Francisco Lam and Lázaro Martínez, who maintained a robust and unique repertoire within the Camagüey company.
Moreover, Chávez Guettón was a frequent collaborator with performing arts groups throughout Cuba. He helped establish the Ballet de Cámara de Holguín and the Ballet Santiago de Cuba, and worked with companies such as Codanza, Danza Libre, Ballet Folklórico Babul, and Danza Fragmentada.
His charismatic presence and sense of humor left an indelible mark, particularly with his portrayal of Mamá Simone in "La fille mal gardée," a role he performed for years with his distinctive comedic touch.
Educator, Mentor, and Essential Figure
Since 1995, Chávez Guettón served as an adjunct professor at the University of the Arts in Camagüey, teaching subjects like History of Dance, Choreographic Composition, and Repertoire. He mentored generations of dancers who fondly recall his discipline, creativity, and intelligent wit in the classroom.
Just a few weeks ago, Camagüey celebrated his 80th birthday with a grand tribute, featuring the screening of the documentary "Chávez en cuerpo y alma," along with a concert program showcasing iconic works from his catalog.
An Irreplaceable Loss
With his passing, Cuban dance loses one of its most enduring, influential, and beloved figures. The Ministry of Culture and the National Council of Performing Arts have extended their condolences to his family, friends, and the artistic community.
Further details regarding the funeral arrangements, which will be held in the city of Camagüey, will be shared in the coming days.
Key Questions About José Antonio Chávez Guettón's Legacy
What was José Antonio Chávez Guettón's contribution to Cuban dance?
Chávez Guettón was a pivotal figure in Cuban dance, known for his dramatic and lyrical choreographies, his role in founding new ballet companies, and his influence as a mentor and educator to many dancers.
What were some of José Antonio Chávez Guettón's notable works?
His notable works include "Ofelia," known for its dramatic power, and "Vivaldiana," celebrated for its lyrical beauty, among many others that enriched the repertoire of the Camagüey Ballet.