The formation of cultural identity through dance practices linked to the Parrandas of Guayos in Cuba

Abstract

The article addresses some characteristics of the Guayos traditional party (traditional festivals of the central region of Cuba), declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2013 and Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2018.These celebrations, also named changüíes, integrate creatively music, dance, singing, religious beliefs, food, drink, clothing, all as part of traditional popular culture, which embody, in various ways, the roots of those who preserve the roots of the people. Based on these elements, it is argued that the potential of the traditional party has not been used sufficiently for the formation of cultural identity in children, adolescents and young people. Dance practices with children and adolescents, developed by the House of Culture of Guayos and linked to traditional party, allow cultural traditions to be kept alive and contribute to the formation of cultural identity, the development of a sense of belonging to the community and its traditions.