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Ballet

Cuban Dancers Fleeing Economic Crisis

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Cuban dancers, once a symbol of national pride and cultural identity, are now seeking opportunities abroad due to the country's worsening economic crisis. The National Ballet of Cuba, a company that was once one of the world's best, has dwindled to just 55 dancers, a significant decline from its peak of over 100 dancers. The economic situation in Cuba is dire, with inflation skyrocketing, tourism plummeting, and a quarter of the population estimated to have left the country. Amidst this backdrop, many dancers are making the difficult decision to leave, seeking better financial prospects and a chance to support their families.

Key Takeaways:

  • The National Ballet of Cuba has lost over 40 dancers in recent years, a significant decline due to the economic crisis.
  • The company's size has been reduced to just 55 dancers, a number last seen in its infancy.
  • Many dancers have defected to abroad, with some joining international companies such as the Norwegian National Ballet and BalletMet in Columbus, Ohio.
  • The economic situation in Cuba is severe, with inflation at 500% and a quarter of the population estimated to have left the country.
  • Former National Ballet members have provided guidance to those leaving, with some celebrities even saving enough to buy cars for their families.
  • Dancers who stay in Cuba face difficult conditions, including blackouts, scarce medical supplies, and pointe shoes stuck in customs.
  • Those who leave for abroad often return to visit their families and provide financial support.

Statistics:

  • 10 dancers defected in 1966, with 20 more leaving in 2003 during international tours.
  • From 2010 to 2023, small groups of dancers fled during performances in Canada, Puerto Rico, and Mexico.
  • By 2024, the National Ballet of Cuba had dwindled to 55 dancers.
  • The country's total population has shrunk by 25% since 2021, or nearly 10% according to official government data.
  • Inflation has soared to 500%.
  • A dancer's monthly salary in Cuba can be as low as $14.
  • Cubans can spend up to $1,000 on a single custom-made pair of pointe shoes.

Sources:

  • The New York Times article (no date provided)
  • Cuban government data
  • Columbia Law Project estimates on Cubans' basic expenses (date not provided)
  • Birmingham Royal Ballet annual report (date not provided)
  • The National Ballet of Cuba website (no date provided)
  • The Norwegian National Ballet's website (no date provided)

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