Amor, Dolor y Sabor is Gabriel Mata’s latest collective contemporary dance program. It is a dynamic fusion of queer and Latinx expression, movement, and storytelling. In duet collaboration with Armani Colón, Angel Ramirez and Manuel Cuellar, the evening is an evocative exploration of identity, migration, and resilience. The performances blend contemporary dance with Latin American cultural influences, creating a rich, layered experience that speaks to personal and collective histories.

Angel Ramirez and Armani Colón will bring their unique voices to the stage with solo performances that delve into themes of heritage, belonging, and self-discovery. Angel’s Dos Dias Despues pulsates with rhythm and fluidity, drawing from his experience with immigration, while Armani’s solo embodies the intersection of queerness and cultural pride through intricate, emotionally charged movement.

Beyond the stage, audience engagement extends into embodied participation. Angel will lead a salsa dancing class, inviting attendees to experience the joy and communal spirit of Latin dance firsthand. This immersive experience fosters connection and appreciation for the traditions woven into the evening’s performances.

To deepen the conversation, Dr. Manuel Cuellar will lead a post-show discussion, offering insights into the intersections of dance, queer identity, and Latinx cultural narratives. His perspective bridges scholarship and performance, allowing audiences to reflect on the layers of meaning within the work.

This program is a vibrant celebration of movement, history, and queerness—an invitation to witness, participate, and engage in a dance experience that honors lived experiences and amplifies Latinx voices in contemporary performance.