William Domingo Leyva Serrano is a well-known figure in Gibara for his long career as a projectionist and film promoter. Especially during these days of FICGibara 2026.
Although born in Velasco, he has been connected to the White City for decades, where he has spent most of his working life.
His relationship with film began at a very young age, influenced by his family environment. One of his brothers worked in film projection alongside renowned technicians in the area. Which facilitated his early entry into the profession. “Since I was a child, I was already working with 16mm film and photography,” he recalls.
An orphan from a humble background, he found in this field not only a job. But also support for his personal growth. By the age of 14, he was already actively working, and he has been doing so continuously since 1967.
For years, his work wasn’t limited to movie theaters. He participated in mobile screenings that brought audiovisual materials to rural communities. “When there was a school or a settlement, we showed cartoons, documentaries, or newsreels,” he explains.
These initiatives brought cinema to hard-to-reach areas.
Among his greatest satisfactions, he mentions the public’s recognition. He affirms that his work has been valued by several generations. Especially for its connection to community activities and children.
However, he also points out that he has faced difficulties and a lack of support at certain times. Even so, he remains willing to continue working and contributing his experience.
Regarding the Gibara International Film Festival, he considers it an important event for the city. Although he acknowledges that there are aspects that could be analyzed at other levels. In general, he values the event’s continuity and its cultural impact.
Currently, one of his main projects is the creation of a film museum. For years, he has amassed more than 200 cameras, as well as projection equipment and other resources related to the development of this art form.
Some of this equipment has been acquired, donated, or restored.
His intention is to make this collection available to the public. In order to strengthen the cultural offerings of the region and enrich the experience of visitors and residents. “The goal is for this equipment not to be lost and to be useful,” he says.
With more than six decades dedicated to film, William Domingo Leyva Serrano remains active in a field that, he says, has defined his entire life.
By: Miguel David Bruzón Hernández
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