Exploring the Musical Magic of 'Buena Vista Social Club'

The Off Broadway musical "Buena Vista Social Club" brings the Cuban songs popularized on the 1997 album to life with the thrill of intimacy and the weight of history. Directed by Saheem Ali, the production enhances the music with live performances and social dancing, while the narrative provides context to what would otherwise be just a concert. The musical's book by Marco Ramirez uses the recording sessions of the original album as its framework, introducing the star of the show, Omara Portuondo. Despite some heavy subplots and a crowded stage, the songs prevail, lending coherence and depth to the story with their exquisite harmonies and raw brass.