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9 / 10
An immediate and enthusiastic standing ovation began as the curtain calls commenced. But as the applause continued, it was the band that took the final bow. And rightly so. The talent was unbelievable—many of them virtuosos—and it reinforced the point of the entire show: that the music itself is the leading character in this work. And preserving its significance—and, perhaps more importantly, its legacy—is paramount.
8 / 10
Director Saheem Ali ensures that the story is told with a laser focus. There is a risk in musical story telling where the lyrics are in Spanish, as well as not always integral to the story. But somehow it always works, whether the song is used as a performance nightclub number or as an inner monologue, emotional exposition. The politics of the era help provide a desperation of sorts for all of the musicians, while elucidating the prejudices among their own country. While some of the book scenes could do with a little more finesse, time will surely help settle them. The exuberant cast is hugely talented and bring this charming piece of musical history to life.
Buena Vista Social Club is the latest in a long line of jukebox/biomusicals. This one in particular is set in Havana, Cuba from the 1950s to the 1990s. The story follows four prominent musicians. Over the course of their lives, they experienced the effects of communism and the rise of Fidel Castro, as well as their eventual collaboration in 1997 on the landmark album.
The North American Tour of BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB is now underway. What are the critics saying about the tour? Learn more about the show and read the reviews here!
| 2023 | Off-Broadway |
Atlantic Theater Company World Premiere Production Off-Broadway |
| 2025 | Broadway |
Original Broadway Production Broadway |
