A new Cuban-inspired twist on the Nutcracker ballet is to launch its national tour in Norwich in November.
Nutcracker in Havana will be co-produced by Norwich Theatre, and choreographed and directed by Carlos Acosta CBE.
It will open at Norwich Theatre Royal onNovember 1, 2024 before embarking on a UK tour including a week-long run at London’s Southbank Centre in December 2024.
The dance production is described as a colourful Cuban take on the festive classic, set to an newly-commissioned version of the Tchaikovsky score, arranged by Cuban composer Pepe Gavilondo.
Featuring over 20 dancers from Carlos’ Cuban company Acosta Danza, the traditional story will be brought to life with ballet at its core but in Carlos’ unique style, seeing dance traditions of Cuba carefully fused and woven throughout the classic tale.
With spectacular video projection and set design by Nina Dunn (9 to 5 Musical, Bonnie and Clyde, Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Don Quixote), Cuba collides with the Land of Sweets, bringing snow to Havana in a visually stunning spectacular treat for all.
Carlos Acosta CBE said: “I am so excited to be bringing Acosta Danza to the Nutcracker. My generation in Cuba grew up without the spirit of Christmas and with this show I can combine the joy of the Nutcracker with the vibrant Havana culture.
“I cannot wait to take audiences from the humble settings of Clara’s home through to the beautiful dream sequences passing through the grand and vibrant Havana ballrooms of the 1940s and 50s.
Norwich Theatre chief executive Stephen Crocker said: “Norwich Theatre is delighted to be working with Carlos Acosta, Acosta Danza and Valid Productions once again, following the success of our partnership in reviving Carlos’ solo show, On Before, which continues to tour in the UK and internationally.
“This is the next major step in Norwich Theatre’s evolution as an originator of new work and creative force bringing the world to Norwich and Norfolk and taking Norwich and Norfolk to the world.”
- For more details and booking links see the Nutcracker in Havana website.
