To Dance Like a Man

Plot Summary

Triplets Angel, César and Marcos, age 11, all want the same - a role in a major ballet production at Havana's celebrated Grand Theatre. Who will be chosen? Their teachers at Cuba's world-renowned National Ballet School say all three have the same emerging talent and there's every chance they will develop as great dancers. Hardly anyone can tell them apart. Their training is rigorous and demanding; thousands of hopefuls apply for a coveted spot at the School. Filmmaker Sylvie Collier was granted extraordinary, unlimited access to the School and backstage at the Grand Theatre, allowing her to film the boys as they train in the robust and expressive style that distinguishes Cuban ballet. Her film provides a child's eye view on determination and the hunger for professional success in the context of Cuba's surprising impact on the formation of male dancers. In the film, ballet superstar José Manuel Carreño tells the triplets to pursue their dream just as he did as a boy growing up in Havana. Excitement builds as the triplets prepare for their chance to debut on stage at the Grand Theatre.