Three cheers and a couple of rhythmic claps for “Cuba Vibra!” This nearly two-hour performance, divided by a short intermission, showcases exquisitely hypertalented Cuban dancers in eclectically thematic dance numbers. Some are accompanied by a live band, lined upstage behind the dancers, while others focus primarily on movement and dance.
Lizt Alfonso’s choreography is unparalleled! The audience was positively awestruck at the calibre of talent and quality of dance numbers. We roared with applause after every performance. Everyone, including yours truly, loved the interactive call and response dance break in the second half. The live musicians and some of the dancers, who were also percussionists, invited the audience to stand and clap along to their rhythmic innovations.
The experience of “Cuba Vibra!” is akin to finding yourself in all the Dirty Dancing movies combined! It also contains pieces inspired by the Middle East complete with mystic Sufi movements and long white robes. It gives us what we know and think of Cuban music and dance, while still leaving room for surprises as we get swept off our feet to a beautiful foreign land. The dancers’ colourful and exquisite dresses paired with an equally colourful spectrum of high-heeled shoes make the experience even more visually stimulating.
The show really is for everyone and everyone was there – youth, families, kids, and grandparents. After having travelled the world over, “Cuba Vibra!” charmed every Vancouver audience member with its mesmerizing magic.
Check out more Massey Theatre events here!
– Maira Hassan