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Alicia Alonso (1921- ) is the most influential Cuban dancer and ballet director, having made her name on the world stage before returning to Cuba to take charge of the development of ballet. The Ballet Nacional de Cuba became a showpiece for the revolutionary government and has frequently toured abroad, even to the USA. In Havana it performs at the Teatro García Lorca, with a repertory of classical ballets, folklore-based works and modern dance. Young dancers brought on by the school have a high reputation for their technique and artistic interpretation. Traditional dances and music are performed by the Conjunto Folklórico Nacional de Cuba, Folkcuba, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2002. It is dedicated to the survival of the music and dance traditions of Cuba and their African and European roots have been preserved and developed into spectacular theatre performances. The company frequently tours abroad as well as inviting international troupes to perform in Cuba as part of its Folkcuba festivals. One of its leading lights, choreographer, composer and co-director Rogelio Martínez Furé, won the National Dance Prize in 2002. There are several contemporary dance companies: Danza Contemporánea de Cuba has travelled widely and performs works by numerous choreographers, often drawing on Afrocuban roots and themes; Danzabierta uses drama techniques in its dance – the choreography often draws an ironic picture of Cuban reality and the dancers sometimes interact with the audience; Retazos puts on grand shows with programmes lasting all night, with influences from the arts such as Lorca's poetry or Fernando Botero's artwork; the Compañía de la Danza Narciso Medina is a group of young and highly expressive dancers dedicated to examining the concerns of contemporary Cubans. Gran Teatro de la Habana, Prado y San José, on Parque Central next to Hotel Inglaterra, T 8613078, bic@gth.cult.cu US$10. Opened in 1838, this wonderful baroque building, which seats 1,500 with 2 galleries, has seen countless famous performers on its stage. The Cuban National Ballet and Opera companies perform here in the Sala García Lorca. The Conjunto Folklórico Nacional and Danza Contemporánea dance companies sometimes perform here. It also hosts the International Ballet Festival. Highly recommended. Teatro Mella, Línea 657 entre A y B, Vedado, T 8335651. 8-10 pesos, depending on seat. Specializes in modern dance, also with variety shows. The Washington Ballet performed here in 2000 as part of the International Ballet Festival, the first time an American professional ballet company had visited in 40 years. Opus bar on top floor, open 1500-0300, serves light meals, quiet and sophisticated, lift is at opposite end to ground floor café.
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