Havana pulses with jazz despite blackouts and Trump's threats

"Cuba has long been under the effects of a perfect storm that shows no signs of abating. In addition to constant power outages, the high cost of living, persistent unsanitary conditions in the streets, and a tangled economic crisis that Cuban authorities seem incapable of resolving, there are now direct threats from Donald Trump's administration, aimed at the Castro regime which has been in power for nearly 70 years."

"For four decades, the Jazz Plaza Festival, centered in Havana, has brought together much of the most significant talent in the genre across different eras. Over the years, the festival has featured legendary figures such as Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, Roy Hargrove, and the commanding Chucho Valdes. For this reason, every year many Cubans look forward to the days of the festival to see international artists live, as well as compatriots who now live abroad."

"This year, from January 25 to February 1, around 286 international artists will converge in Havana alongside hundreds of Cuban musicians. More than 100 performances are scheduled across 16 venues throughout the city, including theaters, cultural centers such as the Fabrica de Arte Cubano, basilicas, and private venues. Organizers have warned that maintaining the festival's standards is becoming increasingly difficult, largely due to the reduced presence of U.S. artists, who have been affected by travel restrictions imposed by the United State"

Cuba faces frequent power outages, a high cost of living, unsanitary streets, and a tangled economic crisis compounded by direct threats from the Trump administration aimed at the Castro regime. The Jazz Plaza Festival in Havana has gathered prominent jazz talent for four decades, featuring figures like Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, Roy Hargrove, and Chucho Valdes. The festival temporarily brightens parts of the city and draws Cubans eager to see international and expatriate performers. This year, January 25–February 1, about 286 international artists and hundreds of Cuban musicians will perform in over 100 shows across 16 venues. Organizers warn that maintaining standards is harder due to fewer U.S. artists affected by travel restrictions.

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