Attending the Cuban Ballet is truly a highlight of any trip to Havana. Located in one of the architectural jewels of Old Havana, the historic 1915 Gran Teatro de Cuba, there are generally several shows a month open to the public. The cost of a ticket is 25 CUC. In addition to being the performance venue of the Cuban National Ballet, the theater also hosts the International Ballet Festival of Havana.
Cuba is home to some of the world's best ballerina dancers, a likely byproduct of Soviet Russia's heavy influence on Cuba starting in the 1960's. The Cuban school combines ballet training from the Soviet Union with Cuban athleticism and rhythm, and its dancers are well regarded for their strength, technique, and artistry. Unlike in the United States, where ballet is generally considered highbrow art, the Cuban ballet is nearly as popular as baseball, and the government funds ballet training and subsidizes tickets to ballet performances.
In October, we had the chance to see a presentation of "Carmen." A dark tale of jealousy and love, this one-act ballet was created in 1967 by Cuban choreographer Alberto Alonso to music by Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin.
Cuba is home to some of the world's best ballerina dancers, a likely byproduct of Soviet Russia's heavy influence on Cuba starting in the 1960's. The Cuban school combines ballet training from the Soviet Union with Cuban athleticism and rhythm, and its dancers are well regarded for their strength, technique, and artistry. Unlike in the United States, where ballet is generally considered highbrow art, the Cuban ballet is nearly as popular as baseball, and the government funds ballet training and subsidizes tickets to ballet performances.
In October, we had the chance to see a presentation of "Carmen." A dark tale of jealousy and love, this one-act ballet was created in 1967 by Cuban choreographer Alberto Alonso to music by Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin.
Gran Teatro de Habana, an architectural gem
Cuban National Ballet Performance of Carmen
 Intricate ceiling inside the Gran Teatro |  Waiting for the show to start! |  Patrons of the ballet come dressed in their best clothes |
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