CUBAN VOICES: A CELEBRATION OF CUBAN RESISTANCE THROUGH ANIMATION WITH CULT CLASSIC “VAMPIRES IN HAVANA” BY JUAN PADRON

As part of its 2024 focus on animation as a tool for resistance, Animae Caribe proudly presents the cult classic Vampires in Havana by Juan Padrón, a cornerstone in the history of Caribbean animation. This screening not only serves as an homage to a legendary work but also to the deep-rooted partnership between Cuba and the Caribbean’s growing animation industry.

Juan Padrón, revered as the “Godfather of Caribbean Animation,” created Vampires of Havana in 1985, a bold, satirical film that used humor, revolutionary politics, and caricature to challenge oppressive systems. The film follows a group of vampires living in Cuba during a time of turmoil, using their immortality not just to survive, but to fight back. It is a layered narrative filled with subversive political undertones, making it a timeless representation of resistance, perfectly aligned with Animae Caribe’s 2024 theme. This year’s edition of the festival will not just honor Padrón’s legacy but also recognize the vital role Cuba has played in the regional animation scene. Over the years, Cuba has stood as a key ally for Animae Caribe, fostering cultural exchanges and collaborative efforts. This enduring relationship is soon to be formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC) and Animae Caribe House. This marks a new chapter in strengthening the animation ties between the Caribbean islands and Cuba, further nurturing regional content creation.

On the panel will be ICAIC’s Creative Director, Isis Chaviano, who together with Cuban director Alexander Rodriques has been crucial in reinforcing these connections. The Cuban Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago has also played a pivotal role in supporting these initiatives. Their unwavering commitment to fostering cultural exchanges between Cuba and the wider Caribbean region has been invaluable to the success of the festival. This highly anticipated screening at Little Carib Theatre promises to be a night of celebration, creativity, and conversation. The iconic space, steeped in a rich history of resistance, serves as the perfect venue for a film that has become synonymous with rebellion and defiance. Beyond the screening, the event will feature a night of lively Cuban music and a post-film dialogue that delves into the role of animation in political resistance. As we celebrate the enduring legacy of Juan Padrón and the continued partnership between Cuba and Animae Caribe, this screening stands as a reminder of the vital role the arts play in the fight for freedom, justice, and equality. Join us at Little Carib Theatre for an unforgettable night that honors both the past and the future of animation in the Caribbean.

Grab your tickets now and be part of this unique cultural celebration!