DC Casineros Collaborators

DJ Azúcar

Cuban music, social dance and community

DJ Azúcar, Alberto Machado, is a longtime collaborator in DC Casineros’ Cuban music and dance community. His musical journey began in Cuba, operating sound and playing music for visitors at Villa Trópico. Originally from Havana, he arrived in the United States in 1997 and played at Havana Village through 2014, helping create a gathering place for Cuban music and social dancing in Washington, DC.

That history continues through DJ Azúcar’s Cuban Night, where DC Casineros currently teaches. Lessons and social dancing bring the company and DJ together around Cuban music and dances taught by their names, including Casino and Rueda de Casino. Past editions have featured our instructors teaching Casino, Rueda de Casino and Rumba, alongside company performances.

Our collaboration also reaches other community gatherings. DJ Azúcar joined DC Casineros for the alumni dinner during our 2025 anniversary weekend and shared the program with our Rueda de Casino lesson at Baila DC’s Cuban Night edition at La Cosecha. His story belongs alongside the artists and community partners who help sustain Cuban music and dance in the DC area.

Follow DJ Azúcar for Cuban Night announcements · Explore our Cuban dance socials

Havana Village · A Community Chapter

From 1997 to 2014, DJ Azúcar’s music helped make Havana Village a home for Cuban social dancing in Washington. DC Casineros’ tribute celebrates those years and the connection between his work, our teaching and the community that grew on the dance floor.

Watch DC Casineros’ Havana Village tribute