CABARET HAVANA 2022

Cabaret Havana is an exhilarating and unmissable new musical filled with captivating Cuban-influenced tunes and inspired by the remarkable true story of Anacaona, the Castro sisters’ legendary Cuban ‘Son’ band – talented teenagers who took on the all-male world of jazz bars and dance halls and found international fame in the last century. Cuba 1933.

Economic crisis, political chaos, student protest. The Castro family’s market cafe is struggling to bring in money. The Government is closing the university and music school, putting the futures of the eleven young Castro sisters on hold. Eldest sister Cuchito comes up with a daring plan... why don’t the sisters form the first all-female seven-piece salsa band? It would be a sensation.

The answer to all their prayers...UK 2033. Music and theatre are strictly regulated by the Government. A group of young people on a compulsory cyber-training scheme prepare to compete for one chance to perform, by retelling the story of the Castro sisters through song, music and dance.

Will the Castro sisters stay together? Will the Cabaret Havana be discovered?

From an exceptionally talented young cast comes this exciting new show full of Hollywood glamour and revolutionary spirit, dancing in the street, dazzling solos and communal Conga drumming. A story of joy, tears, solidarity, and hope.
We see two extremely contrasting worlds on stage. Vibrant and passionate Cuba mixed with a dystopian and sterile cyber world. The show cleverly asks the audience to think about where the arts in heading in our culture and what it means to us as humans when we try to take away this element of life. This question is made even more poignant as it is told through the cast of incredible young performers and reminds us of just how powerful the arts can be.

The show also features and incredible band of young budding musicians who are with us on stage the entire time. Together they create the exuberant soundtrack that brings up immediately to the streets of Cuba.

We spoke to cast members Georgina and Izzy about their experience of being involved in this production:

‘This was my second time doing BYMT and I would definitely recommend it to any young people looking to gain professional experience whilst putting on a show. It can be intense due to the designated rehearsal hours, but it is so worth it with the friends you make. The directors work in a collaborative way which allows cast members to feel involved in the creative process. Overall, I have not only been able to follow my passion of musical theatre at BYMT, but I have made friends for life and amazing memories which will always stay with me!’ Georgina

‘Cabaret Havana was my second BYMT expereince and it was just as positive as the year before! The entire project was challenging in many respects but the rewards of Performing high quality material and working with highly trained professionals, are second to none.

Rehearsals were enjoyable and stretched me in all aspects of the arts. They definitely advanced all my skills. I’ve made fantastic friendships that will last a lifetime and it was brilliant to share this experience with like-minded people. I highly recommend auditioning for BYMT to anyone who enjoys performing. Arts and wants to develop their skills professionally.’ Izzy

Cabaret Havana ran in August 2022 at The Mack, Mountview. Head to our social media channels to see snippets of this fantastic production.