The "Gagá" or "Gaggá" is a Haitian-Cuban rhythm that derives from the Haitian Rara. It is practiced in particular around Santiago de Cuba but it is also found in the Dominican Republic where it is much more widespread.

Following the revolution that shook Haiti in 1791, a large wave of immigration by French landowners accompanied by their slaves brought the "Rara" to the province of Oriente in Cuba where it is known as "Gagá".

In Cuba, "Gagá" has had a significant influence on Afro-Cuban spirituality, music and dance. In a general sense, the legacy of Haitian migration is considered an important part of Cuban culture.

Later, the Gagá spread to the Dominican Republic with the Haitian migrants who worked mainly in the sugar factories. Thereafter, the Gagá evolved and mixed with the local religiosity until having elements that differentiated it of the Haitian "Rara".

During the Easter period, each year, dozens of Gagá and Rara groups make the populations of the two Nations of the island dance.

Let's note that within the framework of the Binational Cultural Dialogue https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35743-haiti-culture-binational-artistic-residency-success-of-the-first-activity.html exchanges around the "Rara" and "Gagá" will take place next June and July in collaboration with the "Fondación Cultural Cofradía".

S/ iciHaiti