The Cuban-themed musical 'Buena Vista Social Club' premiered at the Antonio Paoli Festival Hall of the Centro de Bellas Artes in Santurce, filling the theater with Cuban music and closing to applause and a standing ovation. The production, by Ender Vega for BAS Entertainment, transports audiences to the streets of Havana and highlights Puerto Rican talent.
Choco Orta plays Omara with a powerful voice and commanding stage presence, while Cherry Torres plays the character in her youth, letting the two performers show different stages of the character’s life. The live orchestra is directed by Juan Carlos Rodríguez, and songs such as 'Candela', 'El cuarto de Tula' and 'Dos gardenias’ punctuate the show.
Luis Sanz stands out on the Cuban tres, playing a fragment of 'Preciosa' as a nod to Puerto Rico. The staging includes a two-level set, Havana-inspired details, costumes, lighting changes and choreography. Luis Miranda addressed the audience at the premiere night.
The show will continue at the Centro de Bellas Artes on October 24, 25 and 31 and November 1, with tickets available through Ticketera and at the theater box office.