🎭 Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana
📍Richmond Theatre
🎟️ Gifted
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Carlos Acosta, renowned ballet choreographer, dancer and director, brings a fresh, fun and dynamic take on the festive classic, with a Cuban twist!
Nutcracker in Havana is a vibrant, exciting reimagining of Tchaikovsky’s ballet. The Cuban-born star has crafted a show, infused with lively Latin rhythms & dance styles, colourful costumes and Cuban culture. I wasn’t too familiar with The Nutcracker story, but this was a beautiful way to be introduced to it!
It’s Christmas Eve in Havana, where we step into Clara’s modest home, where beer cans decorate the tree, and the season’s warmth matches the tropical heat.
When Clara receives a Nutcracker doll, she is whisked away on an extraordinary adventure to defeat the fearsome Mouse King and travel to the magical realm of the Sugar Plum Fairy, guided by her Nutcracker Prince.
Featuring brand-new choreography by Acosta himself, this dazzling production is performed by over 20 dancers from his acclaimed Cuban company, Acosta Danza. The storytelling was sublime! Act 1 sees Clara’s entire family take part in joyous celebrations, as they play, laugh and dance together. Nina Dunn’s video projections take us through the bustling Havana streets while the physical staging transforms from the family home to a grand mansion. Andrew Exeter’s atmospheric lighting add to the enchanting journey we are taken on.
Tchaikovsky’s iconic score has been newly arranged by composer Pepe Gavilondo Peon. I enjoyed hearing the influences from the music of Havana including Guaracha and Conga rhythms and beats. The choreography also features notable Latin dance styles like Salsa, which I adored.
Another significant change is that the Nutcracker doll is now a Cuban soldier, also known as Mambi. Dressed in traditional clothing, we loved watching the dance sequences between the mambises and the Mouse King. Act 2 is a delight as we arrive at the Land of the Sweets. The production still includes the classic moves as well as exciting additions. There are impressive acrobatics, a flamenco-inspired routine and the ever so graceful Waltz of Flowers. The costumes were impeccable – bright, colourful and covered with the most intricate details. We also marvel at the Sugar Plum Fairy’s pas de deux, performed beautifully by Lauretta Summerscales.
The performances were magnificent – Clara (Laura Rodriguez) had the most youthful and energetic presence, while Raul Reinoso gave a striking rendition of the Russian Dance. I’m not a regular ballet-goer, so I did find myself preferring the Latin dance styles more than the traditional choreography. Nonetheless, I admired this production, and the unique elements Carlos Acosta brought to a classic show, all while paying homage to his Cuban heritage—it was beautiful to see.
Nutcracker in Havana is a charming, joyful and wonderful festive show for all! It’s currently on a UK tour and heading to Southbank Centre in December. Find out more here.
