I was 16 when I first left Cuba and went to Italy to dance with the Turin Ballet. It was like arriving in a new world. Everything was different. The people, how they dressed, their cars… I love the pace of life in
Italy. People will sit at a table and spend hours over a meal.
The real beauty of Cuba lies in its people. Everyone knows about the beaches and the great landscapes but the friendly, educated and happy people give the country its richness. I will definitely return to live there in the future.
I take my ballet gear everywhere with me: shoes, body warmers, legwarmers… A friend has a brand in
Brazil and has given me all my dancing clothes.
My sunglasses were a present from Natalie Portman. I shot a movie with her in
New York.
Hair gel and Gillette razors are the only grooming products I use. I’m not very fussy, as you can see.
My iPod is packed with Cuban music. It reminds me of home. I love Carlos Varela, Silvio Rodriguez and Pablo Milanés.
My laptop is essential. I’m writing a novel about a Cuban family on it.
Books are a big part of my life. I find stories about different countries and cultures engaging. Right now I’m reading Katie Hickman’s
The Aviary Gate.
Carlos Acosta and Guest Artists is at the London Coliseum during 22-25 July. Visit sadlerswells.com for tickets.
