When the curtain closed at the 2025 Tony Awards, Buena Vista Social Club stood out as one of the most honored productions of the season. Hosted by Cynthia Erivo at Radio City Music Hall on June 8, the ceremony spotlighted Broadway’s freshest talents and most innovative shows. With ten nominations, Buena Vista Social Club tied for the most of any musical, alongside Death Becomes Her and Maybe Happy Ending. The show’s sweeping portrayal of Cuban musical legends captivated audiences and critics alike, earning it multiple wins and a special distinction for its onstage band—marking a Tony first.
The musical, inspired by the world-renowned Cuban ensemble whose members were rediscovered and celebrated in the late 1990s, brings their timeless story to life on Broadway. Set against the backdrop of Havana from the 1950s through the 1990s, the show explores the resilience and artistry of musicians who persevered through revolution and reinvention. All dialogue and songs are performed in Spanish, honoring the authentic spirit and emotional depth of the original album.
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Buena Vista Social Club’s Tony Night Highlights
The night was filled with memorable moments for Buena Vista Social Club. Patricia Delgado and Justin Peck took home the Tony for Best Choreography for their dynamic and heartfelt movement, which captured the musical’s Cuban roots and the characters’ emotional journeys. Delgado, making her Broadway debut, and Peck, a three-time Tony winner, have been instrumental in shaping the show’s visual storytelling since its inception. Their choreography is a love letter to Cuban culture and a tribute to the resilience of its people.
Natalie Venetia Belcon won the Tony for Best Featured Actress in a Musical, further cementing the production’s reputation for outstanding performances. Her portrayal brought depth and warmth to the stage, resonating with audiences and critics. The show also earned accolades for its sound design (Jonathan Deans) and orchestrations (Marco Paguia), showcasing the technical brilliance that supports its musical soul.
A landmark moment came when the band of Buena Vista Social Club received a Special Tony Award—a first in Tony history. The musicians, who play live onstage, were recognized for their extraordinary contributions to the authenticity and energy of the production. Their presence is a reminder of the real-life artists whose legacy inspired the story.
Why Buena Vista Social Club Resonates in 2025
Buena Vista Social Club is more than a musical—it’s a cultural phenomenon. The original ensemble, musicians in their 70s and 80s, had been nearly forgotten after the Cuban Revolution until their 1997 album reintroduced them to the world. The Broadway adaptation, while fictionalized, channels the spirit of these artists and the universal themes of second chances, homecoming, and the healing power of music.
The show’s music, performed entirely in Spanish, features classics like “Chan Chan” and “Veinte Años,” which transport audiences to Havana’s vibrant streets and intimate clubs. The story follows four musicians brought together by a producer determined to capture the magic of Cuban music. Their journey is one of rediscovery, both personally and artistically, and the show’s emotional core lies in its ability to connect audiences with the longing for home and the joy of creative rebirth.
Patricia Delgado, whose parents left Cuba as children, has spoken about how the musical helps her look back and heal. For many in the cast and audience, Buena Vista Social Club is a bridge between generations and cultures, a celebration of heritage, and a call to honor the past while embracing the future.
A Night to Remember and a Show to See
With its Tony wins and critical acclaim, Buena Vista Social Club has solidified its place as a landmark production in the 2024-2025 Broadway season. Its success is a testament to the enduring appeal of its music, the talent of its cast and creative team, and the universal power of storytelling through song and dance.
For theatergoers and music lovers alike, Buena Vista Social Club offers an unforgettable experience—one that honors history, celebrates artistry, and invites audiences to feel the heartbeat of Cuba. Don’t miss your chance to witness this Tony-winning sensation live.
Experience the magic of Buena Vista Social Club on Broadway—book your tickets today and be part of a historic theatrical event.