Carlos Acosta presents the latest graduates from his Cuban Dance Academy in 'Next Generation' a programme full of energy, technical skill, and Cuban passion.

The pieces that make up the show speak about the Caribbean Island, recreating the bodies, lights, and shadows of a country.

“Fuga” addresses the tragedy that the constant migration of its people represents for a country like Cuba. Choreographer Susana Pous confines her dancers to a small area of the stage and from there develops a story about failed struggles, unfinished stories, pain, and empty spaces.

“Mundo Interpretado” (Interpreted World), by Juliano Nunes, takes a journey from general sentiment to the spiritual essence. Dozens of water lily flowers decorate the space—an installation by Cuban visual artist Glenda León which creates a delicate and striking effect on the stage.

Kit Holder’s Capriccio is inspired by René Magritte’s famous series of paintings ‘The Lovers’. Capriccio animates the protagonists of these instantly recognisable images.

New for this season, Didy Veldman has created a piece that exploits the physicality of the young artists, heirs to a rich dance tradition.

Founded in 2023, Acosta Danza Yunior provides an initial platform for the next generation of professional dancers, recently graduated from the Acosta Dance Academy in Havana, to develop and hone their skills, and brings to the stage the latest art from Cuba, infused with the inspiration the Caribbean island has for creators around the world.