When you think of Cuba’s dance scene, you’ll probably think of rumba, son, or salsa. Did you know that Cubans are also avid fans of ballet? Since Fidel Castro, ballet in Cuba has blossomed into one of the most beloved art forms on the island. From schools to dance companies and famous shows, Cuba is a must-visit spot for all ballet enthusiasts. Here’s everything you need to know about the Cuban National Ballet.
The Cuban National Ballet
The Cuban National Ballet, set up in 1948 by the renowned ballerina Alicia Alonso, is one of the most famous ballet companies worldwide. Initially, the company faced challenges, but after Alonso lent her support to Fidel Castro, the ballet group got financial backing. With the government’s help, Alonso received promotion and funding for her art, allowing it to spread across the island.
Ballet became so popular in Cuba that dance teachers from the Soviet Union started coming to the Caribbean Island. In the second half of the 20th century, the Cuban ballet repertoire became increasingly conservative, and 19th-century ballets dominated the scene. As a result, numerous talented dancers like Carlos Acosta and Jose Manuel Carreno left Cuba to explore their art form abroad.
Some of the most memorable shows presented by the Cuban National Ballet in recent times include Don Quixote and Giselle, which have received overwhelming praise from fans and critics alike. From the performance to the costumes, The Cuban National Ballet is heaven for ballet and performing arts lovers.
The International Ballet Festival of Havana
The International Ballet Festival of Havana is one of the most prominent and oldest ballet festivals in the world. This festival is biennial and often held in Cuba’s Grand Theatre of Havana and other locations like the Mella Theatre and Karl Marx Theatre. It saw the light of day, thanks to the joint efforts of various cultural organisations, the Instituto Nacional de la Industria Turística and the Cuban National Ballet. The festival was part of a global communication strategy for Cuban art, and its history can be traced back to the Cuban Revolution.
Since its beginning, the festival quickly became one of the most celebrated events of Cuban culture. It features more than 20 performances every two years, along with some world premieres. So far, there have been 19 festivals, and the next one is to be held in 2024. Those planning trips to the island in 2024 will have the amazing opportunity to celebrate the very best of ballet.
Museo Nacional de la Danza
If you want to delve further into Cuba’s history with ballet, particularly about the iconic Alicia Alonso, the Museo Nacional de la Danza is a must-visit venue. This museum displays rare collections of Alicia Alonso. Cuba’s ballet history is captured through exhibits of sheet music, sculptures, awards, prints, costumes, and photos. Some of its most prized items include a black fur cape, which belonged to the great Anna Pavlova, and Isadora Duncan’s signed autobiography given to Alonso.
The Museo Nacional de la Danza also has various stage elements, costumes, and documentaries relating to the institution’s history. It has exhibits dedicated to ballet and visual arts, Spanish dance, modern dance, Russian dance, the Romantic Era, the National Ballet of Cuba, and its founder, Alicia Alonso.
The Grand Theatre Of Havana
Don’t leave Cuba without watching an enchanting ballet performance at The Grand Theatre Of Havana. It is home to the Cuban National Opera and the Cuban National Ballet. Established in 1838, it is one of Latin America’s longest-running theatres. The theatre got a major renovation in 2016 and has hosted world-renowned performers such as Marcel Marceau and Anna Pavlova.
How to get there
The Grand Theatre Of Havana is located at the southern end of the Paseo de Martí. The venue is also adjacent to the previous seat of the Cuban Congress, El Capitolio. One of the best ways to get to this theatre is to stroll along Paseo de Martí.
What to see
The Grand Theatre Of Havana is a paradise for performance and art lovers. You can take a seat at the 1500-person capacity mainstage and enjoy acclaimed ballet shows like Swan Lake, Giselle, and Don Quixote surrounded by incredible acoustics. If you don’t want to watch only ballet shows, the theatre also features world-class dance and opera performances. Every two years, the International Ballet Festival of Havana is also held here.
During the Intermission
Take advantage of the show intermissions to look at the venue’s mesmerising neo-Baroque façade designed by the acclaimed architect Paul Belau. The Grand Theatre Of Havana is an architectural marvel. The theatre’s exteriors are decorated with symbolic sculptures designed by Giuseppe Moretti. When you step inside, you’ll be enamoured by the luxurious ballroom, grand staircase, and elegant lobby.
You can even go on a guided tour to see the architectural design and learn more about the theatre’s history. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to take a peek at the dress rehearsals of the world-famous performers.
Booking your tickets
Check their website for the performance schedule, and you can purchase tickets at the theatre’s box office. Here, you can also inquire about guided tours, generally conducted by opera companies and ballet members.
Include The Cuban National Ballet in your Holiday Plans
Cuba is one of the most fascinating places on earth. Despite its relatively small size, it has so much to offer to tourists and travellers. From history to food, culture, biodiversity, music, and dance, Cuba is one of the places you must visit at least once in your lifetime. Once you’ve seen one of Cuba’s world-class ballet performances, you’ll be spellbound for life. If you’re planning a trip to Cuba, don’t leave the island without going to a ballet show.
