Express & Star

Vamos Cuba, Birmingham Hippodrome - review with pictures and video

It's as intoxicating as a mojito and is as hot as a jalapeno - Vamos Cuba! is the perfect antidote to chilly autumn days and nights.

Published

The start of November may well mean it's time to turn on the central heating but the heat is well and truly on at Birmingham Hippodrome this week.

There's plenty of shimmying, shaking and sashaying to keep Strictly's pro's on their toes - and to rival Beyonce's bootylicious moves.

Vamos Cuba. Pic: Rachel Cherry

Who would have thought a delayed flight would lead to so much fun?

Well, this passionate production from Sadler's Wells proves to be a dance spectacular.

See the trailer for the show here:

The action takes place in the departure lounge of Havana airport as a colourful mix of characters laugh, fight, argue and smooch away the hours.

And it even offers the opportunity to create a cabaret scene from Havana's famous Tropicana cabaret club as the passengers take a trip down memory lane while they wait for the their flight to Miami.

Vamos Cuba. Pic: Rachel Cherry

While the plot might be a bit thin, the dancing is exceptional, exciting and energetic - including rumba, salsa, mamba and reggaeton.

Add an excellent live band, two strong singers and an explosion of colourful costumes including feathered headdresses to outshine those at the Moulin Rouge.

Standout scenes include a lovers duet and a comedic sketch, which showcased the dancers skills as they portrayed passengers who had overindulged on free drinks.

The set was simple but effective - designed to highlight, not overshadow the dance and music.

If you're already longing for a taste of summer, a ticket to Vamos Cuba! offers plenty to make a song and dance about!

The show runs at the Hippodrome until Saturday.

By Maria Cusine

Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.