Related videos:
Acosta Danza, one of the most acclaimed dance companies today founded by the renowned Cuban dancer and choreographer Carlos Acosta, will debut from May 1 to 3 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C., presenting five works that explore Cuban cultural diversity.
The show, titled Cuban Eclectic, includes the pieces Satori, a fusion of contemporary dance and ballet that symbolizes the spiritual quest; Fauno, an intense duet choreographed by the Belgian Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, and Paysage, Soudain, la nuit, a 17-minute explosion of rumba rhythms, created by the Swedish choreographer, dancer, and filmmaker Pontus Lidberg.
The program will feature Impronta, a piece that blends Afro-Cuban folk dance with contemporary styles, and De punta a cabo, a tribute to the cultural melting pot of the island, ranging from classical ballet to salsa, showcasing "point shoes and barefoot dancers," as highlighted in the presentation notes. The Cuban company will perform at the Eisenhower Theater of the Kennedy Center, which has a capacity of 1,161 people.
Alicia Adams, Vice President of Dance at the prestigious American cultural institution, expressed that she is "delighted to finally present this exciting company this season."
He recalled that in 2016, he wanted to bring Acosta Danza to the Festival Artes de Cuba: From the Island to the World, "but the timing didn't align." The festival took place from May 8 to 20, 2016, at the cultural center in the U.S. capital and featured the participation of more than 200 Cuban artists residing both on and off the island.
"Carlos Acosta is one of the most celebrated dancers and choreographers, whose skills were honed at the National Ballet of Cuba under Alicia Alonso before becoming a soloist at the Royal Ballet," Adams remarked. "The audience will be able to experience more of the richness of Cuban culture."
As a complementary activity, Acosta Danza will offer a master class for adults on April 29, aimed at participants with varying levels of experience.
The Kennedy Center is a society of both private and public nature: it serves as the nation's memorial to President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) and is a center for the representation of the arts, with educational initiatives and extensive outreach. These initiatives are primarily funded through ticket sales and donations from individuals, businesses, and private foundations.
A company that reflects the soul of Cuba
Acosta, 51 years old, founded his company on September 28, 2015, in Havana, to give back to his homeland for the education he received in his childhood and adolescence. In its 10 years of existence, Acosta Danza has established itself as a bridge between tradition and the avant-garde.
“The dancers convey a sense of unity and individual personality, while the repertoire balances Cuban roots with a spirit of adventure,” noted the British newspaper Independent.
Acosta studied at the National School of Ballet of Cuba, and after his time with the National Ballet, he reached a very high level with the Royal Ballet, in addition to being invited by prestigious companies such as the American Ballet Theatre, the Houston Ballet, the English National Ballet, and the Birmingham Royal Ballet, which he has been directing since 2020.
The international dance competition Prix de Lausanne in Switzerland awarded him the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award and recalled that as early as 1990, a very young Acosta won a Gold Medal at the Prix de Lausanne, which it considered “a true symbol of success and of ‘mission accomplished’ for our competition.”
In 2024, Acosta and his company were nominated for national dance awards in the United Kingdom for the production Black Sabbath_The Ballet, created for the Birmingham Royal Ballet - which he directs - and inspired by the music of the rock band Black Sabbath, which was formed in 1968 and was active until 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions about Acosta Danza's Debut at the Kennedy Center
When will Acosta Danza debut at the Kennedy Center?
Acosta Danza will debut from May 1 to 3 at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., presenting their show "Cuban Eclectic." This will be an opportunity for the American audience to experience the richness of Cuban culture through dance.
What works will Acosta Danza present in its debut at the Kennedy Center?
In its debut at the Kennedy Center, Acosta Danza will present five works: "Satori," "Fauno," "Paysage, Soudain, la nuit," "Impronta," and "De punta a cabo." These pieces reflect a fusion of styles ranging from classical ballet to Afro-Cuban dance and salsa, showcasing the cultural diversity of Cuba.
What is Carlos Acosta's impact on dance at the international level?
Carlos Acosta is regarded as one of the most influential dancers and choreographers in the world. His career includes notable performances with the Royal Ballet and other prestigious companies. He has been honored with awards such as the Prix de Lausanne and has made a significant impact on contemporary dance, promoting Cuban culture internationally.
What complementary activities will Acosta Danza offer during its visit to the Kennedy Center?
Acosta Danza will offer a master class for adults on April 29 at the Kennedy Center. This activity will be aimed at participants with varying levels of experience, providing a unique opportunity to learn from one of the most innovative companies in the world of contemporary dance.
Filed under: