The company, now directed by prima ballerina Viengsay Valdrs following Alonso’s passing, will present The Magic of Dance (La magia de la danza). This anthology-style performance includes segments from the Cuban version of Giselle—created by Alonso (1920–2019)—to commemorate the 185th anniversary of the classic’s 1841 premiere in Paris.
The tribute program includes The Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Coppelia, Don Quixote, and Swan Lake, as well as the finale of Sinfonia de Gottschalk—an original choreography by the prima ballerina assoluta herself—according to a press release from the institution.
The evening will honor the artistic legacy of an organization rightfully designated as Cultural Heritage of the Cuban Nation. The company has carried Cuba’s name to stages across the globe, while preserving and enriching a theatrical dance tradition of extraordinary value, the company notes.
Joining the National Ballet of Cuba’s principal dancers, soloists, and corps de ballet will be the Symphony Orchestra of the Gran Teatro de La Habana “Alicia Alonso,” conducted by Idalgel Marquetti.
The performance will be held at the National Theatre in Havana. The cast will be led by Alianed Moreno in the role of Giselle, with Yankiel Vazquez as Albrecht, Ernesto Diaz as Hilarion, and Ana Pessino as Myrtha, Queen of the Wilis.
In The Sleeping Beauty, Carolina Estrada will perform the role of Princess Aurora, while Dani Hernandez will portray Prince Desire; likewise, in The Nutcracker, Gabriela Druynet will dance the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, with Anyelo Montero as her cavalier.
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