Xolo Maridueña Will Make Broadway Debut in November
The actor will star in the Tony Award-winning musical Buena Vista Social Club beginning on November 17, 2026.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Latin
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Actor Xolo Maridueña will join the cast of the hit musical Buena Vista Social Club at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in New York City. He is set to play the character Juan De Marcos for a seven-week engagement starting November 17, 2026.
Why it matters
The addition of Maridueña follows a successful run for the production, which received 11 Tony Award nominations and won five honors in 2025. His involvement maintains the high-profile casting momentum for the acclaimed musical.
The production secured 5 Tony Awards out of 11 nominations in 2025. The original album, which inspired the musical, sold 8 million copies worldwide.
The players
Xolo Maridueña
He is an actor known for his television and film work who is transitioning to a theatrical role on Broadway.
Gina Torres
She is a veteran actress of stage and screen starring as Omara Portuondo in the production.
Bernie Williams
He is a former professional athlete and musician who joined the musical band in October.
José Iglesias
He is an actor who joined the cast in the role of the Narrator during the 2026 season.
The details
The production, directed by Saheem Ali with a book by Marco Ramirez, chronicles the history of the legendary group from Havana. Maridueña will take the stage following performances by other notable actors including Gina Torres and José Iglesias.
Timeline
1996: The original album was recorded in seven days.
March 19, 2025: The musical opened at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre.
August 27, 2026: José Iglesias joined the cast as the Narrator.
October 13, 2026: Gina Torres began her starring engagement.
November 17, 2026: Xolo Maridueña begins his seven-week engagement.
Industry Dynamics
The production follows in the tradition of jukebox musicals bringing international music history to the Broadway stage. Its continued success highlights the commercial viability of adaptations that draw from multi-million selling global albums.
Theatergoers can purchase tickets for the seven-week engagement running from November 17, 2026, through January 3, 2027. Performances take place at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in New York City.
The takeaway
The addition of high-profile talent like Maridueña reflects the strategy of major musical productions to refresh casts and sustain audience interest. Fans of the original music can experience the historical narrative live on stage through the start of 2027.
Further reading
For more updates on theatrical productions, explore the Latin section.
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