By Janet Ramirez
There is something magical about music that brings people together, crosses generations and connects us to our cultural roots. Whether it’s a familiar rhythm that takes us back to childhood or a melody that reminds us of family and home, music has a way of telling stories that words alone sometimes cannot. That magic takes center stage in Buena Vista Social Club, the five-time Tony Award-winning musical celebrating the music, history and legendary musicians of Cuba. Now playing at Dallas’ Music Hall at Fair Park through November 15, this production is a vibrant celebration of culture, dance and storytelling.
Among the talented cast is Frank Rodriguez, who portrays the legendary Cuban musician Compay Segundo. For Rodriguez, the role is much more than another acting opportunity; it represents a lifelong connection to theater and his deep appreciation for Cuban music.
His journey into acting began unexpectedly at age 14 in Montevideo, Uruguay. While attending a school where he was learning English, one of his teachers recognized his potential and encouraged him to participate in a theatrical production.
“I started performing at 14 years old, by accident, actually,”
Rodriguez recalled. What began as an unexpected opportunity soon developed into a passion. After auditioning for a well-known theater director in Uruguay, he became part of a theater group, setting the foundation for what would become a lifelong career.
After moving to the United States in 1979, Rodriguez eventually found his way back to theater. Today, he describes being part of Buena Vista Social Club as a full-circle moment, especially considering the production’s tremendous success since opening Off-Broadway in 2023 and making its Broadway debut in 2025. When asked about playing Compay Segundo, Rodriguez enthusiastically responded, “Compay is the character of a lifetime.” Although he never met the musician personally, he spent considerable time researching his life and connecting with his optimistic outlook.
“Getting in his shoes every night gives me an opportunity to see the world in a different, more positive way,”
Rodriguez shared. Portraying a real-life musical icon, however, comes with its responsibilities. One of Rodriguez’s greatest challenges was honoring Segundo’s larger-than-life personality without exaggerating his character. “You don’t want to create a caricature of a person, but do the person justice,” he explained.
Fortunately, Rodriguez had an invaluable resource: musicians in the production who had personally known and performed with Segundo. He also worked closely with musical director David Oquendo, who helped him better understand the musician’s personality and history. Their feedback became an important part of developing his portrayal
Born in Uruguay, Rodriguez developed a deep appreciation for Cuban music after moving to the United States. He explained that although Uruguay and Cuba are different countries, both share African musical influences, including rhythms, percussion and the clave. He recalls discovering the legendary Cuban group Irakere during the 1980s, an experience that strengthened his connection to the music and culture.
Although Rodriguez has experience in film and television, theater remains his natural element. He enjoys the creative process, developing characters and working alongside fellow performers. For him, the journey of bringing a character to life is just as rewarding as the performance itself.
And audiences have plenty to look forward to. Rodriguez describes the production as a show filled with energy, exceptional musicians and incredible dancers, with a story inspired by real events and music performed in its original language. His hope is that audiences leave feeling uplifted and carrying a little of that Cuban spirit with them.
I had the pleasure of attending the show on Wednesday, November 4, and it truly delivers! From the moment the music begins, the theater comes alive. The extraordinary musicians, captivating choreography and infectious rhythms transport audiences straight to the heart of Cuba. You don’t have to be familiar with the Buena Vista Social Club story to appreciate the experience. The energy is contagious, and the music speaks for itself.
Dallas, don’t miss your opportunity to experience this extraordinary production! Buena Vista Social Club is here through November 15. Come for the music, stay for the story, and leave with a little bit of Cuba in your heart.