Broadway Musical Adaptation of Buena Vista Social Club Set to Premiere

Exciting Broadway Adaptation of Buena Vista Social Club

It has been twenty-seven years since the release of the iconic album “Buena Vista Social Club,” which showcased the rich tapestry of prerevolutionary Cuban music. This album not only became an unexpected best seller but also ignited a global fascination with the Afro-Cuban sound, inspiring tours, documentary films, and a revival of interest in the genre. Now, the magic of this musical journey is set to take center stage on Broadway with a new musical adaptation.

The upcoming production of “Buena Vista Social Club” is slated to begin previews on February 21 and officially open on March 19 at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theater. Set primarily in the vibrant city of Havana, this stage musical tells the poignant story of a group of aging musicians, often overlooked by society, who gather in a recording studio. As they reminisce about their youth during the turbulent times of the Cuban Revolution, the audience is taken on a nostalgic journey through their shared experiences and memories.

The narrative of the musical loosely follows the history of the original album but seamlessly intertwines fictional elements and songs that were released separately. This creative approach adds depth and richness to the storytelling, allowing for a unique interpretation of the musicians’ lives and the cultural backdrop of their era.

The show had an impressive Off-Broadway run at the Atlantic Theater Company, which debuted in late 2023. Renowned theater critic Jesse Green of The New York Times described it as “full-of-riches,” highlighting the captivating song and dance elements while raising some concerns about aspects of the storytelling. The Broadway cast will feature many of the talented performers and musicians from the Off-Broadway production, ensuring continuity and authenticity.

All the musical numbers in the show are attributed to the Buena Vista Social Club, and the production boasts a dynamic book by Marco Ramirez (“The Royale”). The visionary director for this adaptation is Saheem Ali (“Fat Ham”), while the choreography will be brought to life by the talented married duo of Patricia Delgado and Justin Peck.

With a capitalization of $17 million, as reported in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the production is poised for success. The lead producers include Orin Wolf, John Styles, and Barbara Broccoli, who have previously collaborated on the acclaimed musical “The Band’s Visit.” Among the notable co-producers are comedian and actor John Leguizamo, Luis Miranda (a founder of the Hispanic Federation and father of Lin-Manuel Miranda), and the Tony-winning actress LaChanze.

This stage adaptation promises to be a vibrant celebration of Cuban music and culture, offering audiences a chance to experience the heart and soul of the Buena Vista Social Club like never before.