Roberto Fonseca - La Gran Diversión

'The most exciting pianist in Cuba.' - The Guardian

Grammy-nominated pianist, composer, and Cuban music trailblazer, Roberto Fonseca, makes his highly anticipated return to Melbourne Recital Centre in March 2026 for the first time in over a decade, with a national tour showcasing his critically acclaimed album, La Gran Diversión, along with songs spanning his storied career.

Released in 2023, La Gran Diversión is a tribute to the golden era of Cuban music, shaped by the man who arguably personified the revival of the Cuban sound. Inspired by the legendary 1930s Parisian cabaret Cabane Cubaine, the album fuses infectious rhythms, dazzling horn sections, and spellbinding piano melodies - an invitation to dance and celebrate the joyful spirit of Cuba.

A major force in contemporary Cuban music for over 20 years, Fonseca rose to global prominence through performing with the Buena Vista Social Club and releasing multiple acclaimed solo albums, including Zamazu (2007), ABUC (2016), and the Grammy-nominated YO (2012). His genre-defying sound blends Afro-Cuban roots with jazz, funk, and global influences, featuring collaborations with icons such as Omara Portuondo, Gilles Peterson, Ibrahim Ferrer, Baba Sissoko, and Fatoumata Diawara, among others.

'Together we will laugh, cry, enjoy the mystery and magic of rhythms and melodies stemming from my roots.' - Roberto Fonseca

Praise for Roberto Fonseca

'An evocative trip to Cuba…' - Silent Radio

'The most exciting pianist in Cuba.' - The Guardian

Tickets 

Premium $89
A Reserve $79
B Reserve $69

A Transaction Fee between $4 and $8.50 applies to orders made online and by phone. Delivery Fees may also apply. A ticket limit of six is in place online to ensure fair ticket access for all. Want to bring a bigger party? Call our Box Office during business hours on (03) 9699 3333 to book.

Artists

Roberto Fonseca piano & keyboards
Andrés Coayo percussion
Ruly Herrera drums
Felipe Cabrera double bass 
Rafael 'Jimmy' Jenks tenor sax & backing vocals
Yurisbel Hernandez trumpet, flugelhorn, backing vocals
Ariel Vigo baritone sax & backing vocals