The Manana Project CIC brings together decades of professional experience in cultural production, performance, education and community engagement, building on the work and networks developed through Oi Brasil, Cubaneando and Ballet Rakatan.

 

Founded by Esther Alvero and Antonio de Freitas, Oi Brasil has grown into an award-winning specialist in authentic Brazilian and Cuban entertainment and cultural production. From bespoke stage productions and international cruise entertainment to corporate events, workshops and major cultural activations, the company has worked with leading organisations, agencies and brands in the UK and internationally.

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Its portfolio includes performances and productions at prestigious venues including The Royal Albert Hall, alongside work for President Bill Clinton, the then Prince of Wales, and international clients including Team GB, Nike and Holland America Line. The team’s wider professional experience also extends across film, television, festivals and major entertainment productions. 

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Our connection with Cuba is strengthened through a long-standing creative relationship with renowned Cuban director and choreographer Nilda Guerra, founder and Artistic Director of Ballet Rakatan. Nilda created and directed the internationally acclaimed Havana Rakatan, one of Sadler's Wells most successful productions, which travelled from Havana to major international stages including London's West End and Broadway, as well as directing and choreographing the show Vamos Cuba! also another Sadler’s Wells production. 

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Since 2004, Cubaneando has been at the heart of London’s Cuban dance community, becoming one of the city’s longest-running providers of authentic Cuban salsa classes, events and cultural experiences. Over two decades, it has helped introduce thousands of people to Cuban dance while developing generations of dancers, instructors and performers.

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Today, The Manana Project CIC brings these worlds together — professional production, cultural heritage, artistic excellence and grassroots community engagement — and uses that experience to create something with a wider purpose.

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From community to professional stage, we want to open access, nurture talent, support artists, protect living heritage and create meaningful connections through world arts.

 

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For over two decades, our team has created and delivered authentic cultural experiences across the UK and internationally, including:

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• Live Cabaret & Stage Shows

• Bespoke & Tailor-Made Productions

• Live Music & Cultural Events

• Corporate & Team-Building Experiences

• Carnival Parades & Large-Scale Activations

• VIP Receptions & Special Events

• Sporting & Brand Events

• Community & Public Cultural Events