A New Take on a Beloved Classic
Carlos Acosta, a world-renowned dancer and director, has brought his Cuban-inspired version of The Nutcracker to London, offering a fresh twist on Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet. Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana reimagines the familiar festive tale by transporting audiences to 1920s Cuba, combining ballet with Afro-Cuban and contemporary dance styles. Acosta candidly admitted, “I once hated ballet,” a surprising revelation given his legendary career.
A Festive Tale with Cuban Flair
Unlike the traditional German setting of The Nutcracker, Acosta’s version unfolds on Christmas Eve in a humble Cuban home, reflecting the warmth and charm of Havana. Acosta explained his creative direction: “This show, by using the Cuban influence, the ballet, the Afro-Cuban movement and also the contemporary, is…reaching out to new audiences.” The fusion of styles is winning over younger crowds and offering a fresh perspective on a well-loved story.
A Personal Connection to Cuba
Acosta’s deep ties to his homeland shine through in this production. Stephen Crocker, the show’s creative producer, noted, “I think it is so personal to Carlos in a way that some of his previous work perhaps doesn’t have that connection because it represents Cuba … and tells the story of a country that’s having a tough time.” With nostalgic nods to Havana’s beauty and struggles, the production is a love letter to Cuba’s rich history and culture.
From Breakdancing to Ballet
Born in Havana in 1973, Acosta’s journey to ballet was unconventional. He reflected, “I never considered myself a ballet dancer as such…I could dance salsa …and breakdancing as well. And then ballet was something that I did later on.” Initially reluctant, Acosta discovered a passion for ballet after witnessing professionals perform, and his life changed forever.
A Celebration of Art and Heritage
Acosta hopes the production entertains and educates audiences about Cuba’s vibrant culture. He shared, “This piece plays in a very humble house… it offers audiences a sense of how wonderful and beautiful Cuba was in the 1920s and thirties.” By intertwining personal memories and cultural pride, Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana uniquely celebrates art and heritage.
A Must-See Production
Carlos Acosta’s innovative approach breathes new life into The Nutcracker, blending classical ballet with Cuban artistry to tell a deeply personal and cultural story. Whether you are a seasoned ballet enthusiast or new to the art form, this production promises an unforgettable experience.