Cuban dancers to remain in Canada

Five members of the National Ballet of Cuba have decided to stay in Canada after performing there, a spokeswoman for the Cuban company says.

Catherine Chang says the five are taking classes with National Ballet of Canada in Toronto, without elaborating.

The Montreal Gazette reported that among the Cubans was principal dancer Elier Bourzac, who was staying in Canada for “artistic” reasons.

It remains unclear if the Cubans have defected.

The National Ballet of Cuba performed Giselle last month in Montreal.

The company is led by legendary prima ballerina assoluta Alicia Alonso.

Several Cuban ballet dancers have defected during foreign tours in the past.