Havana’s International Ballet Festival “Alicia Alonso” to Showcase Global Talent

The upcoming 28th International Ballet Festival “Alicia Alonso,” scheduled from October 28 to November 10, will feature a star-studded lineup under the leadership of Viengsay Valdés, prima ballerina and General Director of the National Ballet of Cuba (BNC).

The festival lineup was announced at a recent press conference held by Ms. Valdés, Heriberto Cabezas, coordinator of the festival, and Lillitsi Hernandez, Deputy Minister of Culture.

For the first time, the festival will feature the collaboration of the Habana Clásica Festival. The participation of the artists of the Habana Clásica will include performances by Cuban pianists Marcos Madrigal, Aldo López-Gavilán, and flutist Niurka González, marking their first appearance with the festival. Venezuelan conductor Daniel Gil will conduct the ballet “Carmen.” Russian soloist, chamber musician and conductor Nikolay Shugaev will conduct “Swan Lake” and perform with the cello, bringing further international flair to the event.

This year’s festival promises an impressive array of performances, including six performances of the classical ballet “Swan Lake,” highlighting both prominent Cuban dancers and international guest stars. The National Ballet of Cuba will also debut a new ballet by Swedish choreographer Pontus Lidberg, alongside a revival of “Lucile,” by Danish choreographer Johan Kobborg. In addition, the Alma Quartet and guests, among other artists, will take part.

Ticket sales for the International Ballet Festival “Alicia Alonso” begin on October 1st at each theater’s box office. Tickets can also be purchased at the Teatro Nacional de Cuba, box office hours from 1:00 to 6:00 pm. Last minute tickets, if still available, can be purchased on the same day of the performances.