Photo Exhibition Marking Codanza’s 34th Anniversary Opens in Holguin

The photography exhibition *Nhoysinayer*, by artist Carlos Rafael Díaz, opened at the El Zaguán gallery—part of the Cuban Fund for Cultural Assets in Holguin. As part of the events celebrating the 34th anniversary of the contemporary dance company Codanza.

The exhibition, which opened to the public this Friday, features 17 black-and-white works. It spans the company’s history from its foundational pieces to the dancers’ most recent creations. Paying tribute to original members Maricel Godoy, Vianki González, Rosario Arencibia, and Wilber Pérez.

At the opening, the artist explained that using black and white allowed him to delve deeper into the stage design and theatricality that distinguish Codanza. Also as well as the dancers’ vivid performances and the language of bodies and gazes they share with the audience. Elements he has consistently captured throughout his career with the Holguin-based troupe.

In his catalog essay, specialist Isabel García Granados highlighted how Carlos Rafael manages to freeze a gravity-defying leap. A chronicle of the professional work of a company that stands as a benchmark in Cuban contemporary dance.

She also noted the prevalence of wide shots and collective choreographic compositions. Featuring dancers from various generations, that appear as a single body gliding through time.

The collection forms a sentimental bond with who we were and who we wish to remain. It is a body of work that invites us to pause with nostalgia and admiration, she remarked.

During the event, choreographer Vianki González Miranda was honored. She received a reproduction of a work by painter Cosme Proenza in recognition of her career—spanning from the company’s inception to her current role as its director.

Codanza was founded in September 1992 by Maricel Godoy, alongside a group of young graduates from the National School of Dance. With the aim of establishing Holguin as a hub for national choreographic culture.

Since its inception, the company has stood out for the quality of its productions and a distinctive style characterized by clean lines, physical precision, and expressive movement. Qualities that have earned it a reputation as one of the best of its kind in Cuba.