Princess Caroline of Monaco, also known as the Princess of Hanover, recently visited Havana alongside her daughter. The pair attended a performance by the Monte Carlo Ballet at Cuba's National Theater this past Friday. This visit marks the ballet company's second trip to Havana, where they premiered "Core Meu" (My Heart), as reported by the Cuban state media.
Jean-Christophe Maillot, the artistic director of the Principality of Monaco's dance company, shared with EFE news agency that the piece is set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea and features the lively rhythms of the tarantella, a traditional Southern Italian dance. "It's a unique performance where all the dancers remain on stage throughout, which is uncommon, yet underscores the importance of dancing and sharing," explained Maillot, noting that the shows will continue through Sunday.
On Saturday, Princess Caroline also visited Casa Guayasamín in Old Havana, where she donated a portrait painted by Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín. Abel Prieto, a spokesman for the regime and president of the Casa de las Américas, highlighted the princess's gesture as noble and generous amidst prevailing selfishness. He emphasized the deep friendship between Fidel Castro and Oswaldo and the foundation's dedication to preserving their legacy of love for Cuba and the Cuban Revolution.
During her tour of Casa Guayasamín, Princess Caroline was seen with Viengsay Valdés, the director of the National Ballet of Cuba. This marks the Monte Carlo Ballet's second performance in Cuba, the first being in 2015 with their rendition of Cinderella. On both occasions, Princess Caroline has accompanied the dancers.
Founded in 1936, the Monte Carlo Ballet was revitalized 40 years ago by Princess Caroline to "promote Monaco's image through dance," as noted by EFE. Inspired by her mother Grace Kelly's passion for ballet, Caroline excelled as a ballet student and has been a significant patron of the arts in Europe. In addition to founding the Monte Carlo Ballet, she has served as president of the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Monte Carlo Opera, the Prince Pierre Foundation, the Spring Arts Festival, the Monte Carlo Garden Club, and the Princess Grace Foundation.
Princess Caroline's Visit to Cuba: Key Insights
What event did Princess Caroline attend in Cuba?
Princess Caroline attended a performance by the Monte Carlo Ballet at the National Theater of Cuba.
What is the significance of the ballet performance "Core Meu"?
"Core Meu" is a dance piece set in the Mediterranean Sea, featuring the tarantella, and emphasizes the importance of dance and sharing, with all dancers on stage throughout the performance.
How has Princess Caroline contributed to the arts?
Princess Caroline has been a significant patron of the arts, founding the Monte Carlo Ballet and presiding over various cultural institutions such as the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and the Princess Grace Foundation.