More Than a Musical: My Buena Vista Social Club Experience 

Blog By: Moriah Alderman

There’s something about seeing a musical live that makes me fall in love with theatre all over again. But seeing Buena Vista Social Club was different. Not only did I fall in love with live theatre again, but I also fell in love with Cuban culture!

Before I saw the show, I knew that music was a huge part of Cuban culture. Hearing the music at festivals, celebrations, and social gatherings makes me feel a sense of community and family. It also makes me want to get up and dance! Before I experienced the show, I associated Cuban music with dancing and celebration, but now I know that it is so much more than that.

One thing that really stuck with me is that Cuban music is so much more than high-energy, fast-paced entertainment. Each and every song has so much emotion and heart in it. You can tell that every song being sung or played isn’t just a song—it’s an experience. Another thing that stuck with me was the moments where the dancers and musicians were able to express exactly what was happening without using any words. It was absolutely beautiful.

Before I got to experience the show, I thought that Cuban music was just another form of celebration and having fun, but now I understand that it is a beautiful way of expressing their feelings and experiences. Their music helped give them hope and a sense of community. You could tell that every single person on the stage was emotionally connected to the music, and it made the experience ten times better.

I absolutely loved this show and learned so much. I can’t wait for the next one!