Buena Vista Social Club Documentary Film Screening and Q&A with Broadway Director Saheem Ali at NYFA, in Partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Nuestro Sonidos Season
On April 7, 2025, the New York Film Academy’s New York campus was honored to host a special screening of the iconic documentary Buena Vista Social Club, followed by an engaging Q&A with Buena Vista Social Club™ Broadway show director Saheem Ali. Presented in partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Nuestro Sonidos season, the event, which was open to the public, offered all who attended a rare and enriching opportunity to explore the intersection of music, culture, and storytelling across film and theater.
The evening began with a screening of Wim Wenders’ 1999 Academy Award-nominated documentary film, which chronicles the revival of Cuba’s golden-age musicians as they come together under the name Buena Vista Social Club. The film’s heartfelt portraits and mesmerizing performances set a powerful tone, reminding audiences of music’s ability to transcend borders and generations.
Following the screening, theater director Saheem Ali took the stage for an intimate and thought-provoking conversation moderated by Randall Dottin, NYFA Screenwriting faculty member and Chair of Film Arts. Ali shared his vision for the new Broadway adaptation, offering insight into the creative process of bringing the legendary story from screen to stage. He discussed the responsibility of honoring the music and cultural legacy of the original artists while crafting a theatrical experience and storyline that resonates with modern audiences.
The Buena Vista Social Club™ Broadway musical is inspired by true events and brings the Cuban musicians of the Buena Vista Social Club and their music from the self-titled Grammy® Award-winning album to life. The musical was developed and directed by the Award-winning, Saheem Ali, with a cast of talented performers including NYFA Musical Theatre alum, Ilda Mason, as well as leads Natalie Venitia Belcon (Omara), Julio Monge (Compay), Mel Semé (Ibraham), and Jainardo Batista Sterling (Rubén). A world-class band joins the sensational cast of musicians, actors, and dancers from across the globe for an authentic and unique experience.
Presented as part of Carnegie Hall’s Nuestro Sonidos (“Our Sounds”) season—a festival celebrating Latin American music and heritage—the event underscored NYFA’s ongoing mission to provide students and the community with access to industry professionals, culturally significant works, and interdisciplinary collaboration.The evening was a vibrant celebration of music, storytelling, and cultural history, and it served as a powerful reminder of the impact of cross-medium collaboration. The New York Film Academy is grateful to Carnegie Hall and the Buena Vista Social Club™ musical team for this collaborative partnership and to Saheem Ali for sharing his time, expertise, and creative insight.
