From Chester King ~

Gloria Rolando's career spans over 20 years at ICAIC, the Cuban national film institute. She now heads her own independent film-making group, Imagines del Caribe, based in Havana.

Recently, she directed two documentaries that focus on African cultures in Cuba ~

Oggun
52 minutes, 16mm, available on video
English subtitles

On the life and times of Lazaro Ross, the prominent Cuban Yoruba akpwon (lead singer) and founding member of the Conjunto Folklorico Nacional

My Footsteps in Baragua
53 minutes, in English or Spanish

On the stories and survival of the West Indian (principally Jamaican and Bahamian) community in Cuba

Both films cost $30 for individuals and $125 for institutions and are available through Chester King.

Gloria is visiting the US during October and November, 1966 to tour universities, festivals, and cultural centers to show her films and discuss her work as an independent filmmaker in Havana. You may check her schedule by e-mail to Afrocuban News (Chester King) or Olabiyi Yai at the University of Florida or by faxing 904 392-2422.