All this year, Buena Vista Social Club comes alive in Broadway, transporting the public to the very essence of Cuban music. With functions at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theater, the musical, inspired by the iconic 1997 album, celebrates the legendary musicians who gave him life. In the heart of production is Natalie Venetia Belcon, who plays Omar Portuondo. In this conversation, the talented actress and singer shares her experience embodying one of the most beloved voices of Cuba.
How did you prepare to play Omara, such a legendary figure in the musical history of Cuba?
In preparation for my interpretation of the omara Portuondo, I saw both documentaries about it … In fact, I see goodbye at least once a month. I also have a playlist with each song they have made, even out of good view Social Club, which I hear every day on the way to the theater. In addition, I have the musicians who worked with her. It’s a great bonus!
The Buena Vista Social Club music is deeply emotional and nostalgic. How does that influence your performance?
This music is so emotional and full of nostalgia that I only have to allow me to feel it. Omara has a very emotional trip in this show, and the melodies and letters guide me through it.
The musical is inspired by real events. How does that affect your approach compared to playing a fictional character?
Our story is inspired by real events, but it is a fable. However, I always assure myself to honor Omara Portuondo in the way I drive and in his vocal style. She is an absolute queen who does not need to resort to vocal tricks. Everything is on their vocal cords, in the subtlety of his tone and in how he lives the melodies and rhythms naturally.
Do you have any favorite moment or song within the show that touches you personally?
Rubén’s story and his memory loss impacts me deeply. He is a brilliant pianist who, at times, seems only a shadow of what he was. But in the end, he has a awakening and touches the piano perfectly. Destroy me. In the Broadway version, I was on stage at that time and it cost me not to lose emotional control every night. It reminds me of my mother … She and my father were the ones who introduced me to Buena Vista Social Club.
The musical transports the public to the heart of Havana. How do the scenario, costumes and choreography contribute to create that world every night?
The short answer is: Have the curriculum of this team seen? They are not here by chance! Arnulfo Maldonado, Dede Ayite, Patricia Delgado and Justin Peck are at the top of their races. Each of these elements, by itself, already establishes the environment, but together and with such attention to detail, all I have to do is pay attention and absorb what surrounds me.
How do you think this show contributes to the representation of Latin music and culture on Broadway?
This is Latin music. It is not a Broadway version of Latin music. It is real music. And he shows that he does not need to be diluted or translated to reach the public. It is authentic and, honestly, I have never met someone who does not enjoy, at least a little, of Latin music. It is an undeniable Vibe. This show proves that this music is for everyone, as it is. I have seen people out of the obsessed theater, downloading the music, taking dance classes, returning with friends and family to see it again. It is incredible to be part of something like that.
If you had to describe this musical in three words, what would they be?
You already mentioned two: emotional and nostalgic. I would add moving.
