“ Havana Blue…emerges more than ever as the the most romantic of Davis’ works, gloriously melodic yet with a bite of intensity in the characteristically jazzy passages…”

-Raul de Gama, Latin Jazz Network (2016)

First inspired by Davis' exploratory trip to Cuba in October 2012, “Havana Blue” is the beginning of the extraordinary journey that led to Chicago Jazz Philharmonic’s relationship with the Universidad de las Artes (ISA) – a residency that eventually coincided with the historic normalization of relations between the U.S. and Cuba in December 2014.

Premiering at Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre in 2013, this production tells the multi-faceted story of Cuban culture and brings out the many flavors of passion, romance, angst, energy and uncertainty that are embedded in a tumultuous society. From a joyous celebration in the streets of Havana, to a dramatic, intense journey out of a devastated country, the piece infuses Cuban rhythm with pure emotion.“Havana Blue” explores the similarities between African Cuban rhythms and culture, and conveys the art and strength that gives
Cuba its special place in the world. 

This is the second of a three-concert partnership with the Kehrein Center for the Arts in Chicago's Austin neighborhood. Opened in 2019, the partnership aims to help realize the Kehrein Center’s goal of becoming a cultural home on Chicago’s West Side.