Taking readers behind the scenes of one of the world's most exciting dance companies this
richly illustrated book also tells the incredible back story of its famed creator and his
brilliant vision to weave Cuban culture and history into classical and contemporary dance.As a
troubled teenager Carlos Acosta was whisked off the streets of his native Havana and enrolled
in the Cuban national ballet. From that time on he has emerged as one of the most influential
dancers of the twenty-first century. Throughout his career Acosta has striven to shine an
international light on his homeland's rich cultural traditions while also exposing Cuba to
choreographic innovations happening around the globe. With this aim Acosta established ACOSTA
DANZA in 2015. More than five years later the troupe continues to perform to rapturous
accolades both for the exceptional quality of its Cuban dancers and for its mission to
highlight Cuban-influenced music and set design. Filled with more than 150 photographs many
never-beforepublished this book gives voice to the astonishingly diverse collection of dancers
and choreographers whose sensuous vitality and technical skill jump off the page-their
experiences on and off the stage their dreams and strategies their emotions and challenges.
In a deeply personal interview Acosta himself shares a vision for giving young Cuban dancers
the opportunities to express themselves creatively and to give back to a country and community
that gave so much to him.
