The National Library and Information System Authority’s (NALIS) fifth edition of its Latin Nights, held from October 1 to 13, 2025 at the National Library, Abercromby Street, Port of Spain, was very well attended, bringing persons of different age groups and from all walks of life together.

Now established as a highlight on NALIS’ annual calendar, Latin Nights showcased music, dance, film, art, and history from eleven participating countries: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Spain, and Venezuela.

Through this initiative, NALIS continues to facilitate the cultural, educational and social development of the people of Trinidad and Tobago; foster cultural exchange and deepen mutual understanding. Throughout the festival, each evening transported attendees to a different country through its unique cultural expressions.

After the formalities on the opening night, the Embassy of Venezuela treated the audience to traditional Venezuelan dances performed by students of Bishop Anstey High School, musical renditions by La Rondalla del IVCC featuring students from the Cuatro Workshop of the Venezuelan Institute, and a monologue delivered by the Embassy’s Second Secretary.

Subsequent nights showcased the Embassy of Mexico with the screening of the film Corazón de Mezquite, while Colombia invited patrons to learn the art of Latin dance in an energetic “¡Bailemos!” session. Spain’s evening blended the soul of flamenco by guitarist Stefan Roach and dancer Nalini Akal at the Amphitheatre.

Cuba’s contribution marked the one-hundredth anniversary of the birth of Fidel Castro Ruz, with a photographic exhibition and film presentation that explored the life and legacy of the Cuban leader. Panama offered a double feature of documentaries, The Route, and 25 Years of Panamanian Pride: The Canal’s Achievement. Brought in from Panama for the occasion were violinist Colaquito Cortez and singer Veronica Quintero who provided musical renditions which delighted the audience.

The Embassy of Chile continued the cultural journey with the screening of the Oscar-nominated documentary El Agente Topo (The Mole Agent) which featured an elderly man who became an unconventional private investigator inside a nursing home, discovering friendship and compassion along the way.

The Embassy of Peru launched its photographic exhibition, Candelaria, which provided a visual journey through the renowned Festival of Candelaria one of Peru’s most significant cultural and religious celebrations. The exhibition remains on display at the National Library throughout the month of October.

On the ninth night of the festival, the Embassy of Argentina took centre stage with When Tango Meets Soca, a lively dance workshop presented by Nari and Gina that explored the African origins of Tango and its connection to Caribbean rhythm. Guests were also given the opportunity taste Argentine wine.

The penultimate night featured the Embassy of Brazil’s film titled: The Year My Parents Went on Vacation, directed by Cao Hamburger. Set in 1970s Brazil during the military regime, the touching coming-of-age story followed a young boy navigating life and change as his parents go into hiding, all while his nation celebrated the World Cup victory led by Pelé.

On the last night, the Embassy of the Dominican Republic’s screened the documentary film, Hay un país en el mundo, directed by José Enrique “Pinky” Pintor. Inspired by Pedro Mir’s renowned poem, the documentary celebrated Dominican identity, national pride, and artistic heritage through a cinematic tribute to the country’s music, art, and traditions.

First hosted in 2017, Latin Nights has grown exponentially, drawing strong support from the diplomatic community and the local public alike. In addition to its annual showcases, the initiative has helped to expand NALIS’ Spanish Language Book Collection at the Port of Spain Adult Library, a resource established with the assistance of Latin –Ibero American countries to promote Spanish as the first foreign language of choice in Trinidad and Tobago.

For more information on NALIS’ upcoming programmes and cultural events, visit www.nalis.gov.tt follow @NALISTT on social media, or contact the Public Relations and Marketing Department at pr.marketing@nalis.gov.tt .