Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker In Havana

I must’ve seen The Nutcracker more than 20 times. I’ve seen the famous Birmingham Royal Ballet version every Christmas for at least 15 years. I’ve seen the London Coliseum version. I’ve watched it on TV. It’s safe to say I’m a fan but, until last night, I had never seen The Nutcracker in the sun. Who would’ve thought that would work, but it really does. The Nutcracker in Havana, performed last night at the Wolverhampton Grand by Acosta Danza is a colourful, exhilarating masterpiece. A standing ovation was much deserved.

The story is familiar, and yet transformed. It’s still Christmas Eve, but a Cuban Christmas Eve, with dancing, presents and merriment. Tio Elias Drosselmeyer is returning to his family, after 30 years away in Miami. In his time away he has become adept in magic, and he uses thst skill to transform his family home into a mansion, and to transform the everyday clothing of his family to ravishing outfits to match. He also brings presents for his niece and nephew, Clara and Fritz. Clara’s present is a Nutcracker, which naughty Fritz does his best to destroy. Once the party is over though, the magic takes a different turn, as giant rats invade Clara’s bedroom, and her Nutcracker, actually a Mambi soldier, comes to live. The stae is set for s magical adventure.

The Nutcracker in Havana is just so beautiful, and yet so innovative. Those traditional Tchaikovsky pieces sound almost contemporary due to the addition of Cuban rhythms and congas by Pepe Gavilondo. The music just soars and is joyous, totally matching the colourful costumes, and the backdrops, cleverly created by Nina Dunn, are wonderful- you almost feel the heat of sultry Cuba, and can almost smell the candy canes of the Kingdom of Sweets.

Although this is easily recognisable as The Nutcracker, there are brand new ideas to savour. I adored the vibrant maypole, bringing colour and energy to the dancing, and the clog dances are both charming, and great fun, a real touch of Cuba in the middle of the British Winter.

The Acosta Danza are incredibly talented combining earthy sensuality in the Cuban inspired routines with exquisitetraditional ballet. Alejandro Silva is wonderful as the Prince, his partnership with guest dancer Laurretta Summerscales as Sugarplum is just beautiful. Also guesting is Alexander Varona as a brilliant Drosselmeyer, he really links the show together so perfectly.

This is a stunning slice of fairytale sunshine to pep up the dark of January. Carlos Acosta has, once again, delivered joy on a grand scale.

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