Ana Navarro, co-host of *The View*, made a memorable entrance onto the Broadway stage with her debut in *Buena Vista Social Club*. The performance took place at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in New York City on Friday, March 6, marking an emotional milestone for the political commentator, who reflects with disbelief on her journey from being a refugee in Nicaragua to stepping onto one of the most prestigious stages in the world.
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Navarro made a surprise appearance during two segments of the Tony Award-winning musical, which has captivated audiences with its vibrant homage to Cuban music and culture. As she took on roles including a bartender and an affluent citizen of 1950s Havana, the experience was not only thrilling but also highlighted her deep personal connection to the show’s themes.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Navarro expressed her astonishment at the experience. “That certainly was not on my bingo card,” she remarked, reflecting on the significance of her performance the day after it took place. “I can’t believe a little refugee girl from Nicaragua was just on Broadway,” she added, revealing how proud she felt to represent her roots on such a prestigious platform.
The lead-up to her debut was fraught with anxiety, contrasting sharply with her usual composure while discussing political issues on live television. Navarro candidly shared how she experienced a flutter of nerves that led to a lack of appetite before the show. “For the first time in my life, I didn’t eat all day because my stomach was in such knots,” Navarro said, illustrating the intensity of her emotions leading up to her moment on stage.
When she finally faced the audience, the appreciation and love poured back toward her made the experience surreal. Navarro noted the presence of fellow Nicaraguans waving flags in the audience. The moment culminated with about 100 fans waiting for her at the stage door, seeking autographs and celebrating her unexpected role, which she described as one of the most surreal experiences of her life.
Navarro’s cameo may have only lasted for two brief appearances, but the joy and exhilaration she experienced were substantial. She expressed her admiration for the musical, having previously seen it multiple times, and highlighted the profound connection she has with the songs originating from her family’s heritage. The opportunity to participate—however briefly—was especially meaningful, as it celebrated an era of Cuban culture that has always fascinated her.
Dressing in period costume allowed Navarro a taste of the vintage glamour of 1950s Havana. “Getting into costume and into the period piece was so fun,” she reminisced. The elaborate attire, complete with nylons, shoes embellished with buttons, and a fascinator hat, transported her back to a different time.
Navarro’s journey to the stage began unexpectedly during an episode of *The View* back in January, where she was serenaded by cast members of *Buena Vista Social Club* in celebration of her birthday. What initially seemed like a light-hearted surprise led to a genuine invitation to perform, which she initially questioned, thinking it might be a joke.
On the night of her performance, Navarro received ample support from her colleagues and friends in the audience, especially one of her mentors, Whoopi Goldberg. The veteran actress not only attended but also sent a bouquet of flowers beforehand, urging Navarro to enjoy the experience. Their camaraderie underscored a strong sense of community within the show’s broader network, with many cast and crew members welcoming her warmly backstage.
The night concluded with Navarro joining the cast for a curtain call, where she celebrated with the production team and her fellow performers. Her gratitude for the inclusion in such an iconic show was palpable. “I was blown away by this whole experience. I won’t forget this for a long time,” she stated, also acknowledging the hard work of the entire cast and crew who put together a Broadway show.
In conclusion, though Navarro’s stage time was brief—lasting just 11 minutes—it brought significant joy and a newfound appreciation for the rigours of live performance. Her spirited narration of the evening reveals that this venture has not only enriched her career yet again but also marked an unforgettable moment of familial and cultural pride. *Buena Vista Social Club* continues to run on Broadway, and Navarro’s story serves as a reminder of the innate power of performance and the connections that bind us all.