The Amparo Experience

No film or book, seen or read, nor the countless stories I heard growing up, could have prepared me for what I experienced last Sunday. I had watched AMPARO’s official video, a CBS news piece, and an interview with the playwright and director; along with reading several reviews... and yet, still, I wasn’t prepared. I had first read about The Amparo Experience on social media and thought this would be a perfect Mother’s Day gift for my mom, who left her family, and Cuba, at the tender age of 12 with Operation Peter Pan. After watching the promo video, I shared it with my family because I knew my mom would want to share this experience with all of her children. So, after a lovely brunch with the whole fam, we arrived early and were the first ones in line. The sun was relentless, but we were offered umbrellas by staff to deflect the rays. The gate opened promptly at 2:30 and we checked-in effortlessly. We were then directed to a beautifully appointed area, which included a lush, tropical backdrop for photo-ops, and outfitted with drink bands, before being escorted to the open bar. We were animatedly received by three bartenders eager to serve up their exquisitely crafted cocktails, all of which were delicious! (Yes, I had them all!) These guys displayed great personalities and talent while entertaining a room packed with thirsty patrons; none of whom ever seemed devoid of a drink. The cocktail hour ended with a sing along to the classic “Caballo Viejo” joined in on by none other than el caballo viejo himself, Roberto Torres! We were then greeted by our route guide, Javier the Lawyer, and the immersive experience began. What an emotional rollercoaster!!! I went from feeling euphoric to defiant and hostile; followed by insurmountable despair turned into inconsolable sobbing. At the end, feeling drained and trying to get my emotions in check, we were escorted to a beautifully landscaped patio, where musicians were playing lively salsa music. Everyone’s somber demeanor immediately lightened as they began moving to the beat and taking in their surroundings, which included an ample bar with cigars, lounging furniture, domino table, and even a food truck with offerings from Finka Table & Tap. Oh, and another backdrop for more photo ops! Short of having personally lived through this tragedy, this immersive theater production is the absolute closest you can get to truly experiencing and feeling what millions of Cubans endured. THANKS to everyone associated with the creation of this phenomenon!! Not a single detail has been overlooked in this production. From the impeccably decorated villa, to the attentive staff, and enormously skilled actors, AMPARO is such an outstanding production that anyone who experiences it will be enriched by it... and you don’t even have to be Cuban!! My parents met in Miami after my dad, who fought in the Bay of Pigs and was imprisoned, returned from Cuba. While I may not have been born in that beautiful tropical paradise, I will always be #forevercuban 🇨🇺 #madeinamericawithcubanparts #theamparoexperience #therealhavanaclub @therealhavanaclub @vgarcia43 @itsvickylin #keepitgoing 🙏🏼 #dontletitend #freecuba

Beautiful experience I'm so happy they made this show, it's amazing,, I truly loved the combination of emotions all at once. Any one who loves Cuba should see this real life show. Thank you to all the Cast and production team. 💯 original. AWESOME

A unique experience and a story worth telling. Very proud to be Cuban American. The tickets are reasonably priced when you take into account all the delicious meticulously crafted cocktails and food from FINKA. Great concept. Wish you continued success.

A truly extraordinary interactive experience that inserts the audience into critical moments of the Cuban revolution. The intensity left me exhausted but grateful that I could finally feel the stories I had been hearing my entire life. You don't have to have Cuban roots to appreciate it, but it definitely resonates strongly if you do. Having said that, people with limited connection to the immigrant experience will come away with a better understanding of why we hold on to our identity so tightly and insist on keeping the "Cuban" in "Cuban-American." Too bad I can't get tickets to see it again with my children...we need another extension of this show!

An absolutely unique and amazing interpersonal experience with a story, I am not of Cuban heritage or personally impacted by this historical political suppression but I was moved to tears watching this story unfold as if I was a part of it. If you have the limited opportunity to see this performance I highly recommend it to anyone, it is truly an entertainment experience like no other going on anywhere in the US right now

It’s been such a looonnnggg time since I’ve reviewed anything... but the Amparo Experience is totally worth the post. This Immersive theater experience is probably one of the most epic and emotional experiences that I have had any time, anywhere. The cast is amazing, the drinks are delicious, the music was nostalgic .... and the story.... all too real. This amazing journey, not only tells the story of the Arechebala family, but it also represents the story that so many of our exiled families went through. I’ve heard the stories of my mom and family losing everything, leaving Cuba alone and with nothing, my dad’s stories about his almost 20 years in prison ... but nothing could have prepared me for what I experienced when I was given the opportunity to “ live” it. Thank you Vanessa García and Victoria Collado for creating this amazing work!!! You girls are brilliant! This is the most unique and amazing experience 🙂 You guys rock!! And thank you to the cast for making us feel like part of the story, and the Cocktail Cartel Co for making it so much fun, Roberto Torres for the awesome performance.... and Giovany Gutierrez Chat Chow TV for being the most amazing host and mixologist ever!!! .... I am totally doing this again!.... They extended the experience until end of June so, whether you’re Cuban or just want to experience the coolest thing ever, I hope everyone buys tickets before they sell out again!! #theRealHavanaClub #ForeverCuban #AmparoExperience

Amazing LIVING THEATER based on the Cuban experience days leading to the communist takeover and the firing squads, murderes, torture, abuses and property seizures suffered by the Cuban people after castro dictatorship took power. Puts you in middle of 1959 Cuba We were all left in tears. Best theater performance in history of Miami. THEY MUST BRING IT BACK and use it as an educational tool for American youth and anyone that falsely believes communism would be good for America.

Superb!! I highly recommend everyone Cuban or wherever you were born to go experience The Amparo experience. It was touching to see some of the expectators in tears like my friend because he lived thru the experience in his own flesh. The actor’s all were fantastic, I wish them all much success. I hope The Amparo Experience stays longer than it’s scheduled time. Bravo to all that made this experience happen. #theamparoexperience #forevercuban On another note everyone in the staff ushers, bartenders, securities, etc.. thank you for being so accommodating to my friend who could hardly walk or stand because of the sciatic pain he had. Thank You! Before you go to the play make sure you have dinner because the Drinks don’t stop coming from the minute you walk in they serve all types of Havana Club exotic drinks. I had an amazing time the ambiance, everything was put together so well. Congratulations!

What a great experience Amparo Rum garden was! Even though we weren't there to see the show we enjoyed the rum garden ambiance and vibes it gave off! The outside covered bar was neatly displayed with their rum bottles and the patio area had different seating options such as tables (loved the black and gold) and comfortable patio couches and chairs. People were enjoying the drinks, music, and even had a domino table. There was a nice backdrop to take pictures and the area had nice green plants to give a real tropical feel. As the night carried on the actors and people who saw the show all piled out to enjoy the music that was blasting some old school Spanish tunes. It had people dancing the night away. We had to jump up and try our best salsa moves too, lol. Manny and Gio showed us true hospitality and gave us some history on the origins of this show. I had no idea that Bacardi is not actually Puerto Rican rum but the original and true recipe comes from Cuba. There's alot of cool history here and I would recommend all to check it out, it's really interesting. There was some appetizers to munch on like sandwiches and other finger foods for everyone as well. I believe this shows final weekend is coming up but I would love for their rum garden to stay. It was a grown crowd, good music, good talent, and strong great drinks. Perfect evening!

So I've come here twice. (Yes twice). Once I paid for the show. The second time I came on a yelp event to the bar only. Both were great but let's talk about the show... I bought the tickets because I had heard from a friend the show was excellent. Mind you someone who does work in the show but at the time it was popular but nothing like it is now. (Couple months back). I got them for my husbands birthday. Didn't know what to expect. We got here a bit late. We were at a previous event. But we honestly thought we had some time before the event started. Little did we know the whole thing was an experience. As we walked to the front we were greeted. Explained that the show is "violent" and some people do get defensive. Eh I don't so I wasn't concerned. My husband I told to chill but he understood and we went on in. As soon as we got inside it's a bar. You have multiple options for drinks. We tried our best to try them all. We almost did and they were all phenomenal! When we were done with the cocktail hour we started the show. Everything was amazing. Without being revealing the show is interactive about a snippet of time in Cuba when it came to a business. Whatever "experience" you chose (the person you are following) it personalized this time even more. It gave a very interactive description of a time in Cuba where all the more serious communistic changes were happening. Perfect way to glimpse into history. Putting you in the spot. Honestly I wish more plays were like this. Drinks are amazing. I couldn't be happier. Both times in both Bars the drinks were fantastic. My favorite came from the entrance bar but the exit bar is just as good. Recommend the play to all. However I did hear it sold out. So hopefully they open more dates.

The Amparo Experience is one that I wont soon forget. Moving, emotional, beautiful. This interactive theatre experience is a celebration of all things #foreverCuban and it most definitely cannot be missed. Did I mention there are cocktails too?! What more can you ask for! I don't want to give too much away about the show, but the way it works is you pick an actor to experience the play with. I had Miguel. He was magnificent. You can arrive when doors open an hour prior to the show to enjoy some delicious Real Havana Club cocktails and wayyyy too much fun! Then, the show begins. Again, this is something you need to experience for yourself but I was completely blown away by how they mixed acting, music and interactive experiences all together to make you feel like you really were experiencing a story that so many of us have heard from our parents and grandparents. All the actors are amazing, the entire show is phenomenal, and I feel so lucky to have been able to experience this with my mom. Once the show ends, you spill out into the Rum Garden which is a blast and a half. Live music, cocktails, and way too much fun for a school night. TLDR version: purchase tickets, support the arts, drink The Real Havana Club Rum, and most importantly celebrate a story that unites so many people in Miami. I know as the show progresses the ticket prices have gone up, but art is art and this story is worth every.damn.penny. Thank you to the team at The Amparo Experience, you put together something truly beautiful and I am glad I got to see it before it's gone!

Probably one of the best interactive and entertaining events I have ever been to! This 1950's Cuban feel is off the charts. For any Cuban, Cuban-American, or anyone interested in Cuban history this is a one stop show to getting the closest feeling of experience to what Cubans went through during the revolutionary Government takeover. This experience is located in wynwood and kind of secluded so it kinda adds to the mystery of the experience. As soon as you enter you are immediately greeted by employees outdoors. You are given a specific color chip that will stay with you during the whole experience. This chip represents the tour guide you'll have and living life through their eyes at the time of history. This experience is beautiful and makes you feel so many ways from excitement, to happiness, to sadness, anger, and love. They absolutely did a wonderful job here! The drink they have are made with Havana club! My favorite. They have many to choose from and you get to try them all prior to the start of the show. At the end of the show you exit through the back onto a large deck to take photos and there live music and an out door bar where you can order more drinks and cigars. I hope this is here to stay!!!

What an amazing experience! I came with my friend because she had won tickets and being the amazing person she is, brought me! When you arrive you get a paper clip and told who your guide would be. The bar is free drinks for an hour and boy was it packed. We tried some drinks made with Havana club rum. My favorite was Airmail and I believe the other one was Guayabita. The Classico was very smooth. The play began and I wasn't sure what to expect, but it was very interesting. We were with the lawyers group, so during the whole play we walked to different places and were fully immersed in every scene! They talked to us, held my hand, danced with me and became at one point I became the maid of honor. Most of the play was in Spanish and I never wanted to know Spanish so bad! Some scenes we could not understand because they were all in Spanish. I wish they gave us a recording that translated what they were saying. I could tell some scenes were intense because people around us were crying. It was interesting to learn about Cuba's history along with the rum. Thank you yelp and Shed-laure for bringing me! After this, I am longing to try another interactive play!

This interactive play was the most heart felt and profound play I've ever seen. They are not playing due to the COVID shut down. But if they ever come up again I'd love to go again.

Sunday night was a treat at the beautiful Amparo Garden formerly known as Villa 21. Once inside we were greeted by Manny & Gio that lead us in to a small bar where he showed us there specialty drinks and a little story behind the Havana Rum that was used. When Bacardi left Cuba in the 1950's they fled to Puerto Rico with their special recipe at hand. Now, the original Havana Rum is sold at some of our local liquor stores. All drinks served tonight are mixed with the original recipe Havana Rum. My love and I tried every drink on the menu and my top 3 were the Guayabita (frozen drink), Old Fashion, and Equelecua. The Amparo Experience is a theatrical performance with different story lines (22 in all). Set in 1957 at the cusp of the Cuban Revolution you follow the story of families and their journey leaving Cuba. The show is a must see! So glad I got to experience this beautiful event.

PHENOMENAL!!!! No film or book, seen or read, nor the countless stories I heard growing up, could have prepared me for what I experienced last Sunday. I had watched AMPARO's official video, a CBS news piece, and an interview with the playwright and director; along with reading several reviews... and yet, still, I wasn't prepared. I had first read about The Amparo Experience on social media and thought this would be a perfect Mother's Day gift for my mom, who left her family, and Cuba, at the tender age of 12 with Operation Peter Pan. After watching the promo video, I shared it with my family because I knew my mom would want to share this experience with all of her children. So, after a lovely brunch with the whole fam, we arrived early and were the first ones in line. The sun was relentless, but we were offered umbrellas by staff to deflect the rays. The gate opened promptly at 2:30 and we checked-in effortlessly. We were then directed to a beautifully appointed area, which included a lush, tropical backdrop for photo-ops, and outfitted with drink bands, before being escorted to the open bar. We were animatedly received by three bartenders eager to serve up their exquisitely crafted cocktails, all of which were delicious! (Yes, I had them all!) These guys displayed great personalities and talent while entertaining a room packed with thirsty patrons; none of whom ever seemed devoid of a drink. The cocktail hour ended with a sing along to the classic "Caballo Viejo" joined in on by none other than el caballo viejo himself, Roberto Torres! We were then greeted by our route guide, Javier the Lawyer, and the immersive experience began. What an emotional rollercoaster!!! I went from feeling euphoric to defiant and hostile; followed by insurmountable despair turned into inconsolable sobbing. At the end, feeling drained and trying to get my emotions in check, we were escorted to a beautifully landscaped patio, where musicians were playing lively salsa music. Everyone's somber demeanor immediately lightened as they began moving to the beat and taking in their surroundings, which included an ample bar with cigars, lounging furniture, domino table, and even a food truck with offerings from Finka Table & Tap. Oh, and another backdrop for more photo ops! Short of having personally lived through this tragedy, this immersive theater production is the absolute closest you can get to truly experiencing and feeling what millions of Cubans endured. THANKS to everyone associated with the creation of this phenomenon!! Not a single detail has been overlooked in this production. From the impeccably decorated villa, to the attentive staff, and enormously skilled actors, AMPARO is such an outstanding production that anyone who experiences it will be enriched by it... and you don't even have to be Cuban!! My parents met in Miami after my dad, who fought in the Bay of Pigs and was imprisoned, returned from Cuba. While I may not have been born in that beautiful tropical paradise, I will always be #forevercuban #madeinamericawithcubanparts #freecuba #theamparoexperience #therealhavanaclub @therealhavanaclub @vgarcia43 @itsvickylin #keepitgoing #dontletitend

When I saw the opportunity to visit an immersive theater I was immediately intrigued. The fact this is coupled with the Havana Club Rum made me that more intrigued. I, however, was not prepared for how impressed I was with the experience and its actors. But, first, doors open one hour prior to show time. You will be escorted the beautiful Amparo tropical photo up to the bar area. This is when the magic starts. You get your choice of 4 Havana Club Rum cocktails, each beautiful presented, and by lively bartenders that set you in the mood for the experience ahead. Just before show time "Caballo Viejo" plays and it is performed by none other than Roberto Torres and he then introduces you to the actors that will lead you into the play. You have a few tracks to choose from, but in essence they all lead to the same destination and whoever you chose at some point will have their moment and you will still get to witness what the others are. Now, for the show. I was floored by the caliber of actors. Particularly with Melissa Ann Hubicsak who plays Edna. But they are all amazing, and they will take through an impeccably choreographed journey that will leave you talking about for days on end.

An incredible show that tells a real, visceral story that so many Cuban Americans can relate to. A must see! Entertaining and the Havana Club rum drinks are delicious. Make sure you take advantage of the cocktail hour prior to the show! There's also a backyard rum garden you can hang out at after the show with a food truck and bar with more drinks. Overall a great time had by all.

I went with a friend on June 16 for the "Amparo Experience" not knowing what to expect. Despite the storm on Father's Day at 2:00PM, the venue was packed. The cocktail hour before the actual "experience" was fantastic. The atmosphere was lively, the drinks were presented beautifully and were delicious. Afterwards you are transported to the interactive experience and you will be blown away! I don't want to spoil it for anyone who is going so I will not divulge any information. I highly recommend it, you will laugh, have fun and will also be touched emotionally by this journey.

Aaaaaaaamazing!!!!! Sold out so I cannot recommend to go see I wish I could go again. The actors, staff, drinks, food, EVERYTHING was perfectly coordinated !!! Amparo experience please come back again ya hear !! #forevercuban #theamparoexperience

If you haven't heard of Amparo yet, you're hearing from me that it is amazing! It will immerse all your senses. If you're Cuban, no doubt you will be moved and if you're not, I guarantee you, you will still be enthralled. Spoiler alert: I also learned that the authenticity of the Cuba Libre I make all my family bring me from Cuba may not actually be the real deal after all. And well let's not forget to mention our Hialeah High Alumni Rene Granado plays Ramon Arechabala and Nancy Zwama as Director of Operations Woot! Woot! Hialeah is representing!!!

The Amparo Experience is an absolute must! I was fortunate enough to have been gifted two tickets and had the very lucky chance to experience this unique show in June. I am so so grateful for that because this is unlike anything I have ever seen. Like another reviewer said, no movie, book, or story could have prepared me for this experience. I thought I knew this story, but I quickly realized mid-way into the show that I had no idea. I first heard about the Amparo Experience when an old friend from high school announced she would be starring in it in NYC (shout-out to @ Marcela Paguaga for bringing this amazing show to Miami! #TeamMargaritaMendoza for life). This is truly something you must experience at least one time, especially my Cuban brothers and sisters. For starters, the venue is a beautiful, re-purposed house that I wish I could move into myself. It has been completely transformed for the Amparo Experience. ALL of the pre-show cocktails are DELICIOUS - we did not try a single one that we disliked. They are not stingy and will let you drink as many as your little booze-lovin' heart desires till the show begins. My personal favorite was the Guayabita. As for the show itself, we took the Javier route. I don't want to give away too much, but it's important to remember that this is an immersive experience. You're not just sitting and watching a show play-out - you really do become a part of it - you're led through several rooms and become completely immersed in the story. The experience we had on this route was fun, uplifting, yet heartbreaking and extremely moving all at the same time. I feel so much more connected to my roots, it gave me a new respect for what my parents and family in Cuba went through, and has completely shifted my perspective. It's an experience that is going to make you laugh, dance, and cry all at once. These talented actors are nothing short of convincing and I don't think it would be the same experience had it been a different cast. The monologues, music, costumes, settings - everything has been thought out and executed meticulously and perfectly. After the show ends, you'll be led into their "Rum Garden" where there's more food and drinks for purchase (including a frozen Guayabita - must-try!), as well as some Amparo merchandise. If you sit tight, some of the cast and crew will start trickling out and you can interact with them on a more personal basis. This is truly a story that resonates so deeply with so many and Amparo tells it beautifully. Thank you, Amparo, for coming to Miami and allowing us to experience Cuba and Havana Club in such a special way. Anyone that gets to witness and be a part of this show will no doubt enjoy and take something very special from it. I cannot say enough good things. Pro-tip(s): Plenty of parking so don't fret. They have their own private lot for ticketed guests. Get there 1-hour early for pre-show Havana Club Rum cocktails - I suggest trying one of each and doubling up on your favorite one at the end ;) Try not to wander from the bar after getting your drink - they do a little mini-show right before the actual show begins behind the bar. Dress cute - several photo ops! Wear comfy shoes, lots of standing, walking, and some dancing! :)

Amparo is a sensory experience from the first moment you arrive. It's more than I expected. Personally the subject matter is close to home, being a Cuban exile and living the experience as a baby when my parents fled Cuba due to communism in 1960. But all that aside it is a brilliant production with a talented cast and enthralling script and music which captures you as soon as you walk through the first part of the story. In fact your experience begins before the show starts at the Amparo bar serving up whimsical cocktails with The Real Havana Club Rum! I loved it and got the T shirt to prove it!

I might be biased so instead, here's a review by Christie Galeano-Demott for Indulge.com "The Amparo Experience," an immersive theater show extravaganza, has arrived in Miami. Telling the story of the Arechabala family, creators of the real HAVANA CLUB rum, it's bringing with it mystery, love, sorrow, history and a few cocktails, of course. PART OF THE PLAY For those unfamiliar with immersive theater, it's a relatively new movement in theatrical performance, and so by definition AMPARO lacks a few things a typical theater show offers its audience - like a stage and seats. The show begins while you're physically climbing up the stairs and faintly hear music. Then as the doors open and you step inside the Club Nautico scene, you are catapulted directly into 1957 Cuba. As the live band performs traditional Cuban songs and you sip the popular Havana Especial cocktail the bartender has offered you, all your five senses are captivated as the show's characters welcome you to their New Year's Eve celebration. From there, depending on which of the five tracks you chose upon first purchasing your ticket - from a fiery journey to a nostalgic route - you will follow the story of the Arechabala family's rise to rum royalty greatness, its terrifying demise during the Cuban Revolution and its revival thanks to another exiled family, Bacardi. THE RUM DIARIES Created by local playwright Vanessa Garcia, brought to life by Miami-born director Victoria Collado and produced by Tony and Emmy-winning The Broadway Factor (American Son & Kinky Boots), the 90-minute performance is now showing every Thursday-Sunday until May 31 inside a private villa on the edge of Wynwood in downtown. Theatergoers can expect a lively pre-show welcome thanks to the cantineros behind the bar serving up some classic Cuban cocktails specially curated by the real HAVANA CLUB rum brand ambassador Gio Gutierrez. Make sure to try the Guayabita made with HAVANA CLUB añejo blanco rum, guava and lime or the Airmail also made with the añejo blanco rum, honey, lime and champagne. Unbelievable, mind blowing, emotional and fun are just a few words that can be used to describe 'Amparo'. Don't you want to experience the show everyone's talking about? Read more here: https://www.miamiherald.com/indulge/article229458489.html#storylink=cpy

Heartfelt story behind the spirit. It's a range of emotion and flavor packed into one experience. An interactive approach guaranteed to leave you thinking about it well after the experience has ended. Definitely recommended.

I wasn't lucky enough to enjoy the show but I did visit the rum garden as part of an Elite event. The ambiance was great, the drinks were delicious and the food was yummy. My favorite drink was the guayabita, it was a frozen guayaba and rum drink that tasted just like a pastelito de guayaba... I had like 8, no lie lol. The food was delish and a Cuban happy meal by Finka was offered: lechon bao bun, Islas Canarias croquetas, pork belly chicharrones and mini medianoche.

This is not for the faint of heart. It is riveting. Captivating and extremely moving. From the beginning to the end it was absolutely phenomenal. Having come from a theater background myself I was excited to see how it would turn out. I honestly had no idea what to expect. I kept asking the others in my party what the show was all about because when I Googled it it said The Amparo "Experience". It surely lives up to the word experience because that it is truly what it is. I don't want to give it away, but it is quite immersive. Let's start with that. There is food. There are drinks. There's amazing storytelling by an extremely talented cast. Shout out to the actor who led The Miguel track (both Old and Young Miguel). They all did amazing. It was very emotional though. I must say whoever devised this concept deserves much credit. From the music, the lighting, the set design, the transitions between scenes...it all flowed so well. It is in Spanish and English so if you are not a Spanish speaker keep that in mind. I myself am not 100% fluent in Spanish but you can follow along with the story because the acting is that good. Make sure to get there before 10pm as there is a pre-show where there is a male singer that comes out and they have these speciality hand-crafted cocktails prepared by very talented bartenders featuring Havana Club. The Guayabita was delicious. Very refreshing. You are on your feet the whole time from the pre-show to the end, but you don't notice it because there is so much that goes on throughout the show. There is never a dull moment. A nice touch was the rum garden that they have at the end that they lead you out to. There was food, drinks, people playing dominoes, and people smoking cigars. A typical Cuban affair. There was also an outdoor bar with more speciality cocktails but those do cost extra. I really loved every minute of it and felt lucky to be invited to attend this event. I had not heard of it prior but couldn't believe that such an amazing experience was located in Midtown/Wynwood. Highly recommend! They just announced that they have dates in November for the show as well so if you haven't seen it, go see it. Get tickets now! I went on a Friday night and it was pretty packed. I advised that you order tickets beforehand.

This is by far the most amazing theatrical experience I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. The actors were amazing, the location and decor was absolutely beautiful and very authentic and the drinks and music were spectacular. To say emotional is an understatement. From the scents to the clothing to the different experiences and actors, you feel the story, you feel the loss and the pain that my family lived in Cuba and it leaves you incredibly raw with emotion that you feel you are living it at that moment. This type of production was not expected and I am glad that I went. Everyone did an amazing job and it was with great pleasure to have the honor of getting to listen to caballo viejo with one of my favorites, Roberto Torres.

Second time around wasn't as good. Round 1 of Amparo experience we purchased Antonio (much better than Celia) ticket price: $233.36 per couple (we were 4 so fee was split otherwise its 40.00) Round two: $641.00 for 4 = $320.00 - per couple (big hike) Round three is sold out at 441.00 per couple - ridiculous and not worth it! Antonio is the beginning story and if there is a round four start and finish with Antonio - he gives you the bigger picture, you won't be disappointed because you will not have a comparison plus, some of the story line is overlapping. Get the early show! By the 10pm show the bartenders are tired, the cast is tired and sweaty and the experience doesn't feel fresh. Note: Some rooms in the house are very hot - at these prices, portable a/c's should be considered. Improvements: clothes pins I/o metal pins Paper fans (much needed) thank you! Rather el gran combo Drinks despite them being good weren't as good as on the 1st round of the show. The taste is the same but the quantity is less and they automatically hand you a champagne/Prosecco drink of some sort before you select your drink (maybe they were leftover from the previous show) keep in mind most of these drinks are partially premixed.

This is such a unique experience. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions. You will laugh, you will cry, you will get angry and you will empathize. Become part of a true story of a family's exile and loss as you journey through time with a talented cast. Cocktails and music will liven up the night. I've been 3 times and each time shed light on another side story. With 5 tracks to follow you can hear the story of exile from different points of view. If you are lucky, you may be pulled into another story, escape through a secret door or join in for a dance. Wear comfortable shoes as you will stand (or be on the move) throughout the 90 min experience. And don't miss out on the welcome cocktail hour for complimentary rum cocktails made with the Real Havana Club. Make sure to check out the merch after the show!

So I really wanted to love this but the tickets were $180 each and for that price I expected more. Because I am of Cuban heritage, I connected with the content and the actors were great. If you've never been to immersive theatre then it's probably going to be very interesting for you. But if you've ever gone to anything like Sleep No More in NY, you may feel a bit underwhelmed as I did. The ticket process was cumbersome and we had to chase them to send our tickets because we never received them, which took a lot of effort. When we arrived the bar was full and it was difficult to get drinks. I would recommend the earlier showing as there is a nice outside bar after the show that you can enjoy but at the 10pm show (on a Thursday night) it makes it difficult to relax if you have engagements the next day.

Over hyped. Actors were great and pre hour drinking was great but it seemed like it was a Havana club advertisement more than anything definitely not worth the money. Waaaaayyy over priced!!! Not worth the money. Avoid it. If you can.

The Amparo Experience made me develop a new found appreciation for immersive theatre. It was truly an amazing experience. I won tickets at the Yelp Miami Quince event and finally got a chance to enjoy my prize. Shout out to Yelp Miami, Michael, and Giovanni!! My friend and I attended the 6pm show on a Saturday night and boy was it packed! Cocktail hour began at 6pm, for 1 hour. The show started at 7pm. The cocktail hour was unlimited drinks and there were about 5 different drinks to choose from. I had all 5. My favorite was the Havana Especial, followed closely by the Airmail. I just think that the bar was too small for all the people there so at times it took longer to get to the bartender to order a drink. The show was great! We had yellow clothespin that indicated which actor we followed during the show. We were the lawyers. I loved how interactive the show was. The actors/actresses were actually mixed in with us attendees so often I didn't know who was in the show vs who was watching. I do not speak Spanish, so that was the only downside. However, some things were in English and those that weren't, I was able to make out by the actions. Also, many people around were helpful and told us what was going on. A lot of rich history in this great show.

Best show my wife and I ever went to and we've seen many. The immersive aspect is truly unique. The story telling us fun and unexpectedly emotional. It's better if you are bilingual for a few of the references, but you don't miss much if you don't speak Spanish. I look forward to seeing it again and choosing a different path for a different experience.

No words can describe how amazing this experience was. The drinks were spectacular and the cast was phenomenal. They set the vibe PERFECTLY

It was a completely new experience for me to attend an immersive theatre production and even though it tells the story of a Cuban family, this story relates to anyone who's has had to flee their country and leave everything behind. Being Nicaraguan, my parents had to go through the same situation back in the 70s and we're currently going through it again. The AMPARO experience doesn't just tell the story of the Arechala family, it tells the story that many families, from Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela, share. It's a show that takes your through so many emotions, you laugh, dance, cry, and you even get to indulge in delicious Havana Club rum cocktails, but you have to experience it for yourself. Hope it's sticks around for a while.

I didn't get to see the show that everyone is raving about but I did get to enjoy some drinks at the rum garden thanks to the Yelp Elite experience. I really liked the Saved by the bell cocktail which was made with habañero peppers and Havana Club rum. The drink was sweet with a nice kick. They provided a Cuban happy meal which was prepared by Finka's food truck. There was Tender pork belly buns, of course the famous Islas canarias croquetas, and little Cuban sandwiches which was all delicious.

It was simply amazing! Immersive is an understatement. The drinks are fire and the show is one of a kind. You will go on a roller coaster of emotions and then get to spend time with the cast outside in the "backyard" after the show. Finka/Amelia's truck in the back made amazing food and the croquetas are perfection. You don't want to miss it. Will definitely return for another experience

I came to this beautiful country of ours at the age of 5. I spent 3 days st the freedom tower before we were shipped to NYC. My family and I were able to leave and what is called now the "Liberty Flights" My father and mother asked for permission to leave in 1965 and three years later we were allowed to leave. Three years of tears, abuse and pain. My story is not any different from many others who went through the same horror or worst. This play brought joy and pain to my wife and myself. I highly recommend it to anyone that can attend. The only negative thing that I have to say is that I wish that the younger generation that are under 21 could attend. I know that they can't because of the alcohol being served. But I wish they could experience the joy, pain and hope this play gives to anyone who attends. Excellent acting and writing of a true story.

I really enjoyed the show. Javier was my guide and he was awesome. He really engaged the participants. I had prepared myself for more intensity but I found it more entertaining than intense. (Perhaps that varies by track.). I did not cry but also I did not live through those experiences in Cuba. The show was well organized and I really enjoyed the drinks along the way. You are on your feet the entire time but not necessarily standing in place very long. You are moving through the various sets. At the end you exit to a patio area with a bar and a Finka food truck with appetizers. Amparo T-shirts and other items for sale. Long line for ladies' rest room and only two working stalls so good idea to use restroom before show begins as advised by staff.

It's been such a looonnnggg time since I've reviewed anything... but the Amparo Experience is totally worth the post. This Immersive theater experience is probably one of the most epic and emotional experiences that I have had any time, anywhere. The cast is amazing, the drinks are delicious, the music was nostalgic .... and the story.... all too real. This amazing journey, not only tells the story of the Arechebala family, but it also represents the story that so many of our exiled families went through. I've heard the stories of my mom and family losing everything, leaving Cuba alone and with nothing, my dad's stories about his almost 20 years in prison ... but nothing could have prepared me for what I experienced when I was given the opportunity to " live" it. Thank you Vanessa García and Victoria Collado for creating this amazing work!!! You girls are brilliant! This is the most unique and amazing experience You guys rock!! And thank you to the cast for making us feel like part of the story, and the Cocktail Cartel Co for making it so much fun, Roberto Torres for the awesome performance.... and Giovany Gutierrez Chat Chow TV for being the most amazing host and mixologist ever!!! .... I am totally doing this again!.... They extended the experience until end of June so, whether you're Cuban or just want to experience the coolest thing ever, I hope everyone buys tickets before they sell out again!! #theRealHavanaClub #ForeverCuban #AmparoExperience