The full cast has been unveiled for the highly anticipated return of Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana. Following a critically acclaimed, sold-out debut tour in 2024, the production is set to embark on a second UK tour, commencing on October 31, 2025, at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. The tour, a co-production by Norwich Theatre and Valid Productions, will run until February 2026, concluding at its original venue, Norwich Theatre Royal.
Choreographed and directed by Carlos Acosta CBE, the vibrant production reimagines the festive classic with an exuberant Cuban twist. The traditional story of The Nutcracker is brought to life by over 20 dancers from Acosta's Cuban company, Acosta Danza. The ballet artfully fuses classical technique with the rich dance traditions and unique style of Cuban folk, filling the performance with the company’s signature joy of movement.
The cast is drawn primarily from the talented ranks of Acosta Danza, featuring dancers such as Amisaday Naara, Daniela Urgelles, Adria Diaz, and Frank Isaac. They will be joined by guest artists including Enrique Bejarano Vidal and Katherine Ochoa, along with Junior Guest Dancers from the Acosta Dance Centre.
The show is a feast for the senses, set to a newly commissioned version of Tchaikovsky's score, skillfully arranged by Cuban composer Pepe Gavilondo. The visual spectacle is enhanced by video projection, set design, and mapping by Nina Dunn, creating a stunning collision of Cuba and the Land of Sweets—even bringing snow to Havana.
Acosta expressed his immense pride in the show's success, stating that watching his company fuse their diverse genres "has been a real dream come true." He added that he's "excited for even more audiences to enjoy our Cuban Christmas treat."
Tickets for the tour, which includes stops in London (Hackney Empire), Sheffield, Edinburgh, and York, are now available.
