about production
From the sexy, spontaneous rumba to the slick footwork of the cha-cha-cha, this is a show that's guaranteed to get heads nodding and feet tapping. Set to live Cuban music courtesy of Cuba's well-known son band Turquino, Havana Rakatan is a captivating journey through the dance and music of a truly unique country.Havana Rakatan takes you through the history of the wide range of Cuba's music and dance which stems from a fusion of Spanish culture and African spiritual beliefs. Flamenco and Afro-Haitian rhythms as well as jazz, mambo, cha cha cha and bolero give way to the modern forms of salsa which originated in the early twentieth century salon dancers.
Founded in 2001 by former dancer Nilda Guerra, Ballet Rakatan is regarded as one of the most talented and versatile groups of dancers to emerge from Cuba in many years.
Havana Rakatan made its hugely successful debut at the Peacock Theatre, London in spring 2007.
www.havanarakatan.co.uk
audio and video
reviews
The Guardian
"A brilliant band and the dancers' energy is infectious"
Metro
"Has all the ingredients for a summer sizzler... Will have you bouncing in your seat."
Time Out
"Rip-roaring entertainment. Expectations were fulfilled to the point of a full-throated standing ovation."
Independent on Sunday
"Dance gestures that could get you arrested if you tried them in the street. A revelation."
