Bringing a whole new meaning to belly dancing: The Cuban dance troupe for supersized women only
They might look too big for a tutu, but these women are not part of a weight-loss exercise programme - they are professional dancers.
The dance company based in Cuba's capital of Havana is breaking down traditional stereotypes by giving talented oversized performers the opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Danza Voluminosa, which translates as Voluminous Dance, is currently putting on shows to sell-out crowds in the heart of the famous Caribbean island.
Ina rhythm: Maylin Daza, 32, during a rehearsal in Havana, Cuba
Established in 1996, the group's latest offering called 'Crisalidas' or 'Chrysalis' continues with its tradition of providing a unique medium of expression for those who, on account of their 'generous' physique, have been excluded from regular dance academies.
It was the brainchild of director current Juan Miguel Más, who aimed to adapt modern dance techniques to the physical possibilities of overweight people.
There is also a therapeutic aspect to the group, with members working through feelings and emotions associated with being overweight.
Over the last 16 years the company has developed relationships with artists from other disciplines such as poets and playwrights, painters and musicians.
In most respects Danza Voluminosa is like any other professional dance troupe, apart from the fact that its participants weigh more.
Mailín Daza, the company’s prima ballerina, reportedly tips the scales at more than 20stone.
Mr Mas said: 'We provide a context for obese people to develop artistically, to create a language and a structure that makes them able to interact with society.
Having fun: Members of the Cuban group perform the show Crisalidas or Chrysalis to a packed crowd in the Cuban capital on Saturday night
Shaping up: Voluminous dance member Ana Marquetti, 43, right, adjusts her head scarf in preparation for a performance by the group which was founded in 1996
'But it’s not limited to fat people. We’ve worked with dancers who gained weight, retired dancers – all kinds of artists said to be ‘good for nothing’. We’ve worked with people with AIDS. We like to find a place for these kinds of people in our show,' it was reported on Havana Cultura.
Having studied at the Ballet Nacional de Cuba, Mr Mas went on to study with Danza Contemporanea de Cuba and master choreographer Ramiro Guerra.
The troupe has produced three full-length choreographies and 30 shorter works and in 2004 it was the subject of a Canadian documentary called Defying Gravity.
Mr Mas added: 'We’ve played in places for the first time where people have shouted at us, ‘look at those fat people!’ We still hear giggles sometimes, but when audiences see the sense of purpose, the work that has gone into the show, our concentration – well, there’s always huge applause at the end.'
However the 21stone choreographer does poke fun at his dancers' proportions to bring in spectators.
The troupe's light-hearted take on Swan Lake and comedic version of the Can-Can have both sent ripples of laughter through audiences.
Dancing queens: Dancers Maylin Daza, right, Barbara Paula, centre and Rubi Amaro get dressed and apply make up during final preparations for the show
Getting ready: Xiomara Gonzalez, left and Maylin Daza, smoke cigarettes before a show in Havana
