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Carlos Acosta15th July 2003 London, Sadler's Wells by Mandy |
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This is a vibrant and energetic show, and today's heat ideally suited the Cuban atmosphere at Sadlers Wells. A large old cadillac parked outside the Well's foyer created an ideal first impression. The story is a semi-autobiographical tale of a poor country boy's quest to find a better future in the city. Yonah Acosta ( Carlos' nephew) plays the young Tocororo, who is finally persuaded by his father ( Michel Avalos) to set out from home. Yonah is a ballet student and his portrayal of the unsure, frightened but ambitious lad was beautifully expressed. He arrives, confused, to the city, searching for a place where he can fit in. Carlos appears as the adult Tocororo and the two Acosta's dance together to show how the boy has grown up into the man. But he doesnt speak the same dance language as the street-wise city folk. They are full of the sassy salsa rhythms of Havana, his language is that of classical ballet. This causes some very amusing scenes where they ridicule his style. How they dare laugh at a man who can pirouette endlessly and leap at least five feet in the air I dont know! He eventually finds acceptance,friendship and even love amongst the city people, once he has proved he can dance like them too. His girl friend Clarita is danced by Veronica Corveas, a soloist with Ballet Nacional de Cuba. She is a terrific performer, switching with ease between classical and contemporary dance. Her poignant classical solo in the country scene was very beautiful, her arabesque so graceful with a lovely line. The live music is on stage and very much part of the show. You will all be tapping out the beat on the way home, I was!
Carlos has written, produced and now stars in a really fantastic show, full of tremendous energy and wit. At the finale the cast threw us ( the audience) fresh flowers before running out through the aisles, and afterwards Club Havana provided free Rum punch in the bar. There is no interval by the way, my only quibble as it was so hot we quite fancied an interval drink. Thanks to all who came to the first night Get-together, it was lovely to see you all. Viva Carrrrrrrrrrlos !!
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