Featuring Cuban music legends, such as Papa Oviedo (master of the guitar-like tres), diva singer Siomara Valdes and nimble salsa legend Eric Turro, Hemingway's Havana puts up all the signs of being a sure-fire winner, and then takes the edge off with a heavy slant on author, Ernest Hemingway.
Hemingway spent 20 years in Havana and this well-intentioned recreation of his favourite hangout, the Floridita bar, provides a reason for his one-time secretary and daughter-in-law, Valerie Hemingway, to be the star of the show. Live on stage, she diligently delivers reminisces of Cuba and Hemingway but you can't help longing for a native Cuban to give some insight into their country and heritage.
Away from the chitchat, the music is a powerhouse of Cuban beats, fabulous salsa performances, a raucous rendition of Chan Chan and that addictive Latin American vibe. But as well as digging the salsa sound, you have to be a true Hemingway fan to appreciate this. (Susan Wright)
