Nutcracker in Havana

Nutcracker in Havana

Nutcracker in Havana places Tchaikovsky’s enduring ballet in Cuba, combining classical ballet with Afro-Cuban dance styles, new arrangements and vibrant choreography. It keeps the core narrative of Clara’s journey, but reinterprets it through Cuban rhythm, culture and visual colour.

The UK tour runs through late 2025 into early 2026, visiting a host of theatres across the country. Audiences will see a fresh take on a cherished seasonal favourite, rendered with heart, flair and cultural resonance.

Tour Dates

Created and directed by Cuban-British ballet star Carlos Acosta, this version of Nutcracker in Havana transforms the traditional European setting into a vibrant Caribbean world. Acosta’s vision infuses the familiar narrative with Cuban musical influences, Afro-Cuban movement and an arrangement by composer Pepe Gavilondo that complements Tchaikovsky’s original themes. The result is both familiar and refreshing.

The production is mounted with a company of dancers from Acosta Danza and partner artists, combining classical technique, folkloric forms and contemporary gestures. Scenic design, costumes and lighting enhance the Havana setting, while the tour seeks to make ballet more accessible and engaging for broader audiences. It has already been warmly received on its UK runs, combining spectacle and emotional depth in celebration of cross-cultural dialogue.