This autumn, dance enthusiasts in London are in for a treat as legendary dancer Carlos Acosta marks the tenth anniversary of his acclaimed dance company, Acosta Danza.
The celebratory program, A Decade in Motion, will grace the stage of Sadler’s Wells Theatre from 23-27 September offering a vibrant showcase of Cuban dance and culture, including two UK premieres.
A Vision Born in Cuba
Acosta Danza was founded in 2016, following Carlos Acosta’s retirement from The Royal Ballet. The company was born out of Acosta’s desire to nurture and spotlight the burgeoning creative dance talent in his native Cuba. Over the past decade, Acosta Danza has become a beacon of innovation, blending classical and contemporary styles to create a repertoire deeply rooted in Cuban history and culture. The company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of dance has earned it international acclaim, including the prestigious National Dance Award for Best Mid-Scale Company earlier this year.
A Decade in Motion: A Celebration of Cuban Dance
The mixed bill, A Decade in Motion, is a testament to Acosta Danza’s artistic journey and its dedication to showcasing the richness of Cuban dance. The program features works by five renowned choreographers, each bringing a unique perspective to the stage.
- La Ecuación (The Equation): Opening the evening is a piece by celebrated Cuban choreographer George Céspedes. Known for his innovative approach to social dance, Céspedes combines Cuban flair with mathematical precision to create a style that is both dynamic and captivating.
- 98 Días (98 Days): Olivier Award-winning Spanish-Venezuelan choreographer Javier de Frutos presents a work inspired by the life of Spanish playwright Federico García Lorca. Set in 1920s Cuba, the piece explores Lorca’s love affair with the island, capturing the joy and enchantment of falling in love with a place far from home.
- Llamada (Gesture): Created in 2023 by acclaimed Spanish choreographer Goyo Montero, this piece also draws inspiration from Lorca, specifically his poem Ode to Walt Whitman. Llamada delves into themes of sexuality, rage, and faith, offering a powerful and thought-provoking performance.
- De Punta a Cabo (From End to End): Closing the evening is a vibrant ensemble piece by Alexis Fernández and Yaday Ponce. Set against the iconic Malecón esplanade in Havana, the work celebrates the diversity of Cuban dance culture, seamlessly blending classical ballet, salsa, and contemporary styles.
Carlos Acosta: A Dance Icon
Carlos Acosta’s journey from Havana to international stardom is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in 1973, he began his ballet training at the age of nine and quickly rose to prominence, becoming the youngest-ever principal dancer at English National Ballet at just 18. In 1998, he joined The Royal Ballet in London, where he became a beloved figure among audiences. Acosta’s contributions to dance were recognized with a CBE in 2014, and he retired from classical ballet two years later. In addition to founding Acosta Danza, he has served as the director of the Birmingham Royal Ballet since 2020.
A Must-See Event
A Decade in Motion is more than a celebration of Acosta Danza’s ten-year journey; it is a tribute to the spirit of Cuban dance and its ability to transcend boundaries. With its rich blend of classical and contemporary styles, the program promises to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of dance at Sadler’s Wells Theatre this September. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Carlos Acosta or new to the world of Cuban dance, A Decade in Motion is an unmissable event that showcases the power, passion, and artistry of Acosta Danza.
Tickets from £15
Ticket Office: 020 7863 8000 or www.sadlerswells.com