Oralitura Habana Returns for the Fourth Poetic Improvisation Gathering
Havana is set to host the 4th Oralitura Habana Poetic Improvisation Gathering from September 25 to 28. Organizers confirmed the schedule during a press conference this week at the event’s main venues.
This edition commemorates the 70th anniversary of the “Controversy of the Century” between El Indio Naborí and Angelito Valiente, the 25th anniversary of the Experimental Chair of Improvised Poetry, and honors Francisco Riverón and Inocencio Iznaga—popularly known as the Jilguero de Cienfuegos—celebrating their contributions on the anniversaries of their birth and passing.
According to Alex Díaz Hernández, the general director of Oralitura Habana, dozens of Cuban artists and international guests from seven countries will participate in the event. The opening concert on September 25 will feature the acclaimed band Buena Fe, performing alongside renowned writer and repentista Alexis Díaz Pimienta.
The inaugural day will also include lectures such as “Francisco Riverón Hernández in the Eye of Memory,” “Approaches to the Life and Work of Inocente Iznaga, the Jilguero de Cienfuegos,” and “The Controversy of the Century: 70 Years Later.” On September 26, Díaz Pimienta will lead a workshop reflecting on the 25th anniversary of the Experimental Chair, exploring the nuances, techniques, and secrets of the Cuban décima.
Co-director Leidys Hernández Lima highlighted the excitement surrounding the Freestylers vs. Repentistas battle. The freestyle team will feature Colombian artist Lokillo and Cubans Mason and Antony Bravo, while the repentistas will include Cuban performers Emiliano Sardiñas and Sindy M. Torres, alongside Argentine Emanuel Gabotto.
Hernández Lima also emphasized the importance of outreach programs that bring participants to Havana’s Manuel Saumell and Amadeo Roldán music schools, as well as the Indio Naborí School of Poetic Improvisation, inspiring new generations.
On September 27, tributes to cultural icons and key moments in the history of poetic improvisation will be presented through “The Controversy of the Century, as Reimagined by La Colmenita Los Meñiquitos” and “Oralitura’s Guateque: A Tribute to Tomasita Quiala.”
Díaz noted that this edition continues to celebrate diversity in programming and venues. Alongside performances, attendees can explore theoretical panels, photography exhibitions, book presentations, and documentary screenings at locations including Pabellón Cuba, La Casa de la Bombilla Verde, the Theater of the National Museum of Fine Arts, Nodo Habana, Colina Lenin, and Casa Patrimonial.
The Cojímar-based Casa Patrimonial will showcase local artists, projects, and initiatives. A special highlight is the children’s concert “Planeta Chamaquili,” featuring Enid Rosales and her group, along with Roly Ávalos, Adriana Fajardo, Sian Burgos, and Julio García.
The festival will conclude on Sunday, September 28, at Casa de las Américas, with a closing concert by Spanish singer-songwriter Pedro Pastor, performing alongside guest improvisers.
Translated by Luis E. Amador Dominguez
Photo: José Luis Alvarez Suárez
