Cuba Toasts Alicia Alonso’s 90th Birthday

Cuba Toasts Alicia Alonso's 90th BirthdayHavana, Dec 22. -Renowned figures of Cuban music and dance dedicated a gala tribute to Prima Ballerina Assoluta Alicia Alonso on her 90th birthday.

The Grand Theater of Havana hosted an elegant show that started with the work ParAlicia, by renowned composer and pianist Frank Fernandez, with choreography by Tania Vergara.

Shortly before the premiere, Fernandez referred to what inspired him to write the 10-minute piece which, without literary text, supports what it known as the spirit of dance.

Vergara's choreography was performed by Viengsay Valdes, principal ballerina with the Cuban National Ballet and her young partner, Yadil Suarez.

Also performing in the gala were soprano Johana Simon, singer-songwriter Polito Ibanez, popular singer Ivette Cepeda, pianist Hernan Lopez-Nussa, and the Habana Riport group. (Prensa Latina)