As Havana endures power outages lasting up to 72 hours and ongoing street protests, the Cuban regime has decided to hold casino dance sessions on Avenida 23 in Vedado as part of the ICAIC's Summer Film Festival, now in its tenth edition.
The cultural event, VIVArtes 23, spearheaded by MAMBO Cuba in collaboration with the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC), the Ministry of Culture, and EGREM, occupies the avenue between 10th and 12th streets, directly in front of the iconic Chaplin Cinema. The festival is held from Thursday to Sunday, starting at 5 p.m., between July 9 and August 16, 2026.
Social media posts from MAMBO Cuba on Facebook display groups of around 20 individuals—many donning matching white shirts—dancing casino style in the middle of the avenue. The ICAIC building and the Fresa y Chocolate Cultural Center serve as the backdrop for these events.
Public Reactions and Social Media Backlash
Event organizers enthusiastically described the scene: “Now that Havana is ours… we dance casino on 23… neighbors, passersby, and even those hunting for bread join in. This is pure Cuban spirit at VIVArtes 23.”
However, this imagery has sparked a divided and heated reaction online, where the derogatory term "sheep"—used to describe those who follow the regime unquestioningly—has flooded the critical comments.
One user remarked, "The sheep moving to the rhythm of hunger and the blackout."
Another comment was more detailed: "Capitalize on the circus with no transport, dancing amidst misery and neglect. If there’s no noise from factories, workshops, ATMs, people coming and going, or even a bite of a sandwich, if there’s no noise of hope, then the circus, commanded by the executioner, relaxes the petrified air of empty mouths and minds."
A Cuban resident put it bluntly: "Is this really happening in Cuba? Really, there are reasons to dance and sweat? We deserve 67 more years of communism, but without asking anything from outsiders."
Contrasting Realities in Havana
The stark contrast between the official celebration and the daily reality is hard to overlook. Havana witnessed 82 of the 107 protests recorded in Cuba during June, with power cuts extending up to three days in some neighborhoods.
An anonymous comment summed up the sentiment with irony: “The dance of the sheep. They did it last year too.”
Additionally, a report cited in May indicated that 96.91% of the Cuban population lacked adequate access to food in April 2026, and nearly one in three households had at least one member who went to bed hungry the previous month.
The VIVArtes 23 program includes screenings of Cuban films, meetings with filmmakers, street parades, DJ sessions—including River Sound—trova, theater, dance, and casino dance wheels. Sundays are dedicated to children, featuring films from ICAIC's Animation Studios and children's shows.
Frequently Asked Questions about the ICAIC Festival
What is VIVArtes 23?
VIVArtes 23 is a cultural event organized by MAMBO Cuba, in partnership with ICAIC, the Ministry of Culture, and EGREM, featuring various artistic activities in Havana.
Why is the ICAIC Festival controversial?
The festival is controversial because it takes place amidst severe power outages and social unrest, leading to criticism over the disconnect between the celebration and the country's hardships.
How long do the power outages in Havana last?
Power outages in Havana can last up to 72 hours, causing significant disruptions and contributing to public discontent.