Talks at Google Broadway's Buena Vista Social Club
Dec 2, 2025
Join Mel Semé, a Cuban musician from the Broadway production, along with singers Isa Antonetti and Da'von T. Moody, as they dive into their rich musical upbringings. They share inspiring stories about their paths to the show, revealing the joy of portraying legendary musicians authentically. Wesley Wray discusses the vital connection of Afro-Caribbean dance and choreography to their performances. The cast reflects on the exhilarating audience reactions and their plans for a national tour, highlighting the unique experience of the first Afro-Latino Broadway show.
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Learning From Cuban Elders
- Cast members used direct mentorship from Cuban musicians like David Oquendo during rehearsals.
- Those firsthand lessons influenced vocal choices and helped convey artists like Omara's "queen of feeling" quality.
Dance As Spiritual Storytelling
- Choreography channels spiritual traditions to deepen character expression on stage.
- Wesley Wray connects Afro-Caribbean training and Ailey technique to embody deity-based movement authentically.
Personal Parallels Eased Performance
- Mel Semé related personal life events to the character Ibrahim Ferrer, easing performance pressure.
- Using lived experience allowed him to honor the real musicians without impersonation.