Related videos:
The dancer, actress, and singer Zenaida Armenteros Calvo, a legend of Cuban folklore, passed away this Sunday at the age of 94.
The National Folkloric Ensemble, of which she was a founder, announced, "With great sadness we received the news of the passing of our beloved Zenaida Armenteros, the Ayagba of Cuba."
Armenteros was “one of the most versatile Cuban artists, founder of the National Folkloric Company of Cuba, lead dancer, lead singer, recipient of the National Dance Award in 2005, and recognized as an Artist of Merit by UNEAC,” they add.
For its part, the Ministry of Culture stated that Armenteros is “one of the most emblematic figures of popular art on the Island,” who dedicated his life to the preservation and dignification of Cuban cultural identity, captivating the public with his talent and humility.
"Your artistic legacy and your example will live on forever in every scene, every song, and every heart that loves Cuban culture. Thank you, Zenaida, for so much. Rest in peace, Queen of our folklore," they stated.
The journalist Georgina Torriente, a resident of Armenteros, reminded us that the artist was born in El Cerro in January 1931.
"I have barely heard her powerful voice on stage from the apartment next to mine in the building where we lived together for about 30 years in Havana. Her measured speech and natural elegance have always been my pride as a Black woman from the neighborhood. Like her, I was born in a humble home, but with more than enough good manners and elegance," she shared about her neighbor.
The body of the Ayagba of Cuba is being displayed this Monday, from 10 am to 2 pm, at the funeral home on Calzada and K. in Vedado, for those who wish to pay their last respects.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Legacy of Zenaida Armenteros and Cuban Folklore
Who was Zenaida Armenteros and why is she important in Cuban folklore?
Zenaida Armenteros was a prominent Cuban dancer, actress, and singer, recognized for being the founder of the National Folkloric Ensemble of Cuba. She received the National Dance Award in 2005 and was an emblematic figure in the preservation of Cuban cultural identity.
What was the impact of Zenaida Armenteros on Cuban culture?
Zenaida Armenteros dedicated her life to the dignification of Cuban cultural identity, winning over the public with her talent and simplicity. Her artistic legacy and example remain alive in every cultural representation that celebrates the island's folklore.
How was Zenaida Armenteros bid farewell in Cuba?
The body of Zenaida Armenteros was displayed at the funeral home on Calzada and K in Vedado, for those who wished to pay their final respects, allowing admirers and friends to say goodbye to the "Queen of Cuban folklore."
What was Zenaida Armenteros's relationship with other figures in Cuban folklore?
Zenaida Armenteros shared the stage and cultural mission with other legends of Cuban folklore, such as Silvina Fabars, who was also an emblematic figure of the National Folkloric Ensemble of Cuba. Both artists left a significant legacy in the dance and popular culture of the island.
Filed under: