Cuba Ballet Performs The Nutcracker
Irina Echarry, photos: Caridad
HAVANA TIMES, Jan. 11 — The Cuban National Ballet —beginning the year at its best— this past weekend presented The Nutcracker (in its complete version).
That classic ballet is one of the world’s most popular Christmas season productions – perhaps because of the story, or maybe because of the pleasant sensation of dreaming it leaves with all those who have the opportunity to enjoy it.
One-hundred children from the Youth Ballet of Hamilton (Canada) performed as special guests. In addition were dancers from the Alejo Carpentier Elementary School of Ballet and the Vocational Workshop of the Dance Department of the Cuban National Ballet.
They all shared stage with Viengsay Valdes, Anette Delgado, Yanela Piñera, Javier Torres and Elier Bourzac, and other recognized figures of the Cuban National Ballet.
The character Clara was interpreted with grace and ease by young Nelly Martin, who knew exactly how to win the applause of the Cuban audience.
The Garcia Lorca Theater was packed, and everyone who was able to attend the performances on Friday, Saturday or Sunday left satisfied with the scenery, the wardrobe and the artistry of the young dancers.
Tickets were sold out the very first day they went on sale, as many desired to eyewitness the world of dreams offered by the ballet version of The Nutcracker presented by Cuban National Ballet founder Alicia Alonso.
For those lucky enough to attend, the performances were magical. With applause, harmony —and chilly weather outside— this was a superlative weekend for Cuban ballet lovers and visitors to the capital.
Great read. Ballet Nacional de Cuba is one of my favourite companies. What a wunderful experience for the Canadian students.
My husband and I saw the Cuban National Ballet perform the Nutcracker in Hamilton Canada. As Canadians we are fortunate to have a variety of ballet events–the Cuban Ballet was the best. In fact, our national newspapers have rated the Cuban National Ballet as one of the best in the world (better than London and Paris!!).
Bravo to all the performers!