In addition to the 30 audiovisuals premiered by Animados ICAIC this summer, the institution celebrated its 65th anniversary with a new space for children's dreams, bringing vitality and magic back to the capital's La Rampa cinema. Regarding this, Esther Hirtzel Galarza, director of Animados ICAIC, spoke with the press.

“This opportunity to offer our programming, along with the cartoons programming of Cuban Television's animation studios, independent filmmakers, and some feature films offered by embassies, through the link with the International Educational Film Festival (IEFF), has allowed us to enjoy a children's cartoons programming at La Rampa Theater.”

But the fulfillment of the wish goes beyond the film screenings: "And since this was a commitment of the ICAIC management, we all began to dream, and thanks to the drive and dreams of Mónica Pita, who leads the independent production company Corojo Cinema, we achieved the characterization of La Rampa Cinema. I confess that there is no greater joy than standing at the door and seeing the faces of children with their families. From outside, touching with their hands all the characters waiting for them on the cinema wall, and when they enter, finding that enchanted tree that, when you pass through it, you find beloved characters like Elpidio and María Silvia in their jungle, Meñique..."

The best news is that this endeavor is growing and adding new attractions: "To celebrate the month of August and add some new details, we've hung the faces of Cuban characters, creating a fantasy, as if they were hanging from that enchanted tree that allows you to enter the movie theater. We've also included some details: the tree is carried over, and on the floor we see elements, of fantasy and cosmos. The colorful balloons remain intact, and it's something children enjoy, and they can take pictures in all these settings.

"The very end of the show continues to be a celebration, because we've incorporated some characters: like Wika, an artisan who offers very interesting products. She dresses up as a witch, and then children can buy some crafts there. We've also renovated the cafeteria thanks to the support of Corojo Cinema, and even offers products at affordable prices.

"It's like entering a fantasy world to enjoy cartoon films, not only Cuban but also international, and we're going to continue making the dream come true throughout August."

The arts converge at La Rampa cinema, collaborating with cinema to provide a wonderful experience. The first day will be La Colmenita del Cerro; on August 16, the Peña de Federico is scheduled to be a giant party to celebrate our beloved Elpidio's 55 birthday. Incidentally, there will also be a celebration with Abril Editora House, with the screening of restored short films and other activities organized by the editor and supported by Animados ICAIC.”

The initiatives of Animados ICAIC on its 65 anniversary extend beyond the walls of La Rampa cinema, and Esther also spoke about this: “We continued this summer with something that has also been a huge success: holding children's workshops. We inaugurated them on July 12th with a giant party, always led by Pipo Pipo and Federico. Enid Rosales joins us frequently, as does Papote, but the massive participation of both girls and boys in the workshops has been surprising.” Also the gratitude of the families.”

In addition to the 30 national premieres, animated films from around the world have been shown, especially Japanese and Russian films, the latter as part of a much broader cinematic exchange.

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSí Translation Staff