Folk Arts - Master Artist - Roberto Borrell

Born in Cuba, Roberto Borrell learned traditional Afro-Cuban dancing by watching performances in his community. Since moving to the United States, he has performed in various festivals across the country, reclaiming traditional aspects of African culture.

As a recipient of a 1994 Apprenticeship, Borrell taught Mark Lilly Afro-Cuban dance and music. Borrell focused his teachings to specific techniques of the dance form, its social significance, and religious symbolism.

Mark Lilly resides in Seattle, Washington and makes a point of staying in touch with the culture and heritage of his African American roots. Mark studied Afro-Cuban dance as a student at Portland State University in Oregon. Mark is disturbed that Americans take dances from other lands and develop only the technical aspects while neglecting the social and spiritual aspects. He wants to share Afro-Cuban dancing to others, particularly the Latino and African-American communities, with a goal of dispelling negative myths regarding African-based religions. Mark plans to use what he has learned to strengthen the social and cultural bonds in his community. He also wants to empower others with knowledge of African history, dance, and music. Mark plans to share his passion with at-risk youth, serving as a role model, and offering dance as a constructive alternative to the problems youths face today.