HAVANA RAKATAN - Congas Productions & Sadler's Wells (Cuba / UK)

From the heart of Cuba, to four sell-out seasons in London and a world-wide tour, the international sizzler Havana Rakatan comes to Sydney!

Sensual rumba, to sizzling salsa and the slick footwork of the cha cha cha, the intoxicating rhythms will take you on a captivating journey through a truly unique country.Set to live music courtesy of Son band Turquino, the authentic heart and soul of Cuba comes alive on stage - featuring authentic African beats to popular tunes including the famous Chan Chan (signature song of the Buena Vista Social Club).  With flamboyant costumes and exuberant personalities, 14 dancers rip up the dance floor. This high-energy music and dance spectacular will "have you bouncing in your seat" - METRO

THE DANCERS
Under the direction of Choreographer Nilda Guerra, Ballet Rakatan is regarded as one of Cuba’s best exports. The company’s 2006 performances at the Edinburgh Festival were awarded the Five Stars Award, and were described as the most talked-about and press-covered company at the Festival. Since, they’ve performed to packed houses all over Europe, Japan and the UK, including a sell-out five week run in London’s West End. Most of the dancers are graduates of the renowned Escuela Nacional de Arte de la Habana, combining contemporary dance training with every aspect of Cuban dance and Latin styles; including Classic, Folklore, Popular, Salsa and Flamenco.

THE BAND
Taking their name from Cuba's highest peak, Turquino specialise in traditional Cuban dance music - Son. With its roots in Afro-Caribbean music, Son is the foundation of modern salsa and combines instruments like the tres, guitar, trumpet, bongo, guiro and vocals. After performing all over the world, this 8-piece band now bring their contagious, feel-good sound to the stage, forming an integral part of the Havana Rakatan experience.