Merengue and bachata in Guinness World Records: Documentary by Alberto Zayas

Producer and director Alberto Zayas announced that he has begun filming his next film project titled "Dominicana, a Republic of Records," a documentary that will narrate how the Dominican Republic achieved two Guinness World Records recognitions through music : the first in 2019 with merengue , and the second in 2021 with bachata .

"This initiative celebrates collective work, national identity , and the positive impact of our music on the world. It's a story of effort, pride, and unity," Zayas said during an interview with Diario Libre.

The documentary , which is being produced under the Film Law , will include testimonies from the protagonists of both events, previously unseen footage, and the voices of key figures in the organization of these milestones .

One of the project's strengths is that it will feature the participation of the two international judges who certified the Guinness events:

"They will be part of the central thread of this story. We want the documentary to have a universal, professional, and emotional tone, showing how a nation united around music to break down barriers," Zayas added.

In addition to reflecting the magnitude of the events that brought together hundreds of dancers in public squares and avenues across the country, the production seeks to be an exportable historical and cultural document .

The producer considers these two achievements to have been the most internationally renowned events of his career:

"It was global news, bringing merengue and bachata to the world's headlines . I want that moment to not just remain in the archives, but to live on for future generations."

The filmmaker announced that the tentative release date would be late 2026, and there are already talks with international networks interested in distributing the documentary .

Although Zayas has been recognized for his work in television and live show production , this documentary marks his formal return to film as a director :

"There was a lot of anticipation surrounding my entry into the big screen, and I think this is the perfect project to kick off that journey with purpose."

And in parallel: Rubby Pérez Infinito

In the midst of pre-production for the documentary , Zayas is also immersed in directing and producing the "Rubby Pérez Infinito" gala, the official tribute to the legendary merengue singer who recently passed away.

• The event will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Eduardo Brito National Theater , with an orchestra of 36 musicians , national and international guests, and the musical direction of Manuel Tejada .
• "It's a celebration Rubby dreamed of and planned since 2023. Although he's no longer with us, his vision is present in every detail of the show," he concluded.

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