William López, a Cuban dancer and content creator known on social media as @iamcubaa_, recently shared a video that has stirred excitement among his followers. The clip captures the enthusiastic reaction of the audience during a party in Italy, where López and his group were invited to perform.
The invitation came from celebrated Italian dancer Vanessa Lacedonia (@vanessalacedonia), who is the founder of the VL Academy dance school located in the Puglia region of southern Italy.
The Cuban dancers' performance was part of a pre-Christmas celebration at the dance school, which explains the strong presence of young girls and teenagers in the audience.
Additional videos from the event reveal that students of various ages and skill levels participated, turning the occasion into a practical lesson on Cuban dances in Italy.
With over 8,000 likes on Instagram, the footage shows the Cuban performers delivering popular island rhythms. The audience responds with enthusiasm, shouts, and applause, captivated by the energy and charisma displayed on stage.
“Oh, the Cubans... What do you all think? The vibe doesn't lie,” López commented with the video, playfully highlighting the passion Italians have for Latin music.
Comments from viewers concurred that the rhythm and spontaneity of the Cuban dancers won over the attendees.
The video underscores the growing influence of Cuban culture across Europe, notably in Italy and Spain, where urban and traditional island genres like reparto and salsa continue to gain traction.
Residing in Barcelona with a following of over 300,000 on TikTok, William López has established himself as a vibrant ambassador of Cuban dance abroad. He collaborates with European academies and creators to foster cultural exchanges through dance.
The Rise of Cuban Dance in Europe
Why is Cuban dance gaining popularity in Europe?
Cuban dance is gaining popularity in Europe due to its vibrant energy, unique rhythms, and the cultural exchanges facilitated by artists like William López, who promote these dances through collaborations and performances.
Who are some key figures promoting Cuban dance internationally?
Key figures include William López, who actively promotes Cuban dance through social media and collaborations, and Vanessa Lacedonia, who supports these cultural exchanges through her dance academy in Italy.