CUBAN BAROQUE

About the show

Leap into the breathtaking grandeur of Baroque with this brilliant double bill curated by Carlos Acosta. In this new work from the celebrated Acosta Danza, the lush artistry of the Baroque period intersects with the energy, creativity and vibrancy of Cuban dance. Emerging from the 17th and 18th centuries the creative movement was characterised by deep colour, elaborate detail and intricate decoration. A brand-new premiere from Andonis Foniadakis journeys to the rhythmic heart of Baroque. Set to Esteban Sallas’ Salve Regina, the piece explores the classic chaconne looping structure that circles through phases of acceleration, fracture and rebound. As the score shifts from Baroque lyricism toward Cuban drive, Foniadakis showcases the fusion between memory and contemporary. Closing the programme is Goyo Montero’s powerful Chacona, a piece that was originally created for the Staatstheater Nürnberg Ballett during Montero’s 17-year tenure as director. Chacona is the final movement of Bach’s masterwork Partita No.2 in D Minor for violin, accompanied in this performance by guitar and piano. Physically and musically demanding, it requires total cohesion from the ensemble of 16 dancers. Classical in sound and contemporary in heart, this is a mesmerising piece not to be missed.