Jose Iglesias Marks History with Broadway Debut in Buena Vista Social Club

Former MLB star Jose Iglesias, known as Candelita, made his Broadway debut on August 27 as the Narrator in Buena Vista Social Club at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre. The performance marks a historic milestone, as Iglesias is the first Latino Major League Baseball player to perform on Broadway. While sports media highlighted his viral hit 'OMG' and connection to the New York Mets, theater outlets emphasized his status as a Latin pop artist and the cultural significance of his role in the Tony-nominated musical.
Key points
- Jose Iglesias performed as the Narrator in Buena Vista Social Club starting August 27, 2026.
- The production is staged at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in New York City.
- Iglesias is recognized as the first Latino MLB player to perform on Broadway.
- His musical career includes the 2024 single 'OMG,' which reached number one on the iTunes Latin Pop Charts.
- Buena Vista Social Club is a Tony-nominated musical based on the 1997 Grammy-winning album.
Background
Earlier coverage in July 2026 confirmed Iglesias would join the production for a six-week run beginning August 27. The show, which opened on Broadway in March 2025, had previously premiered Off-Broadway in 2023. Iglesias’s transition from professional baseball to music gained traction after his 2024 single 'OMG' became an anthem for the New York Mets and was performed at the MLB Home Run Derby.
How outlets are covering it
Bleacher Report focused on the intersection of Iglesias’s baseball career and his viral musical success, specifically noting his time with the New York Mets and the popularity of 'OMG.' In contrast, Playbill emphasized his identity as a Latin pop star and the cultural weight of his Broadway debut, highlighting that he is the first Latino MLB player to perform on the stage. Both outlets agreed on the date and venue but differed in their framing of his professional legacy.
Why it matters
This event bridges the worlds of professional sports and live theater, highlighting the growing crossover of athletes into entertainment. Iglesias’s debut underscores the cultural impact of Cuban music in New York and sets a precedent for Latino athletes in the Broadway industry.
What to watch
Buena Vista Social Club will continue its run at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre. Iglesias is scheduled to perform for a six-week engagement, with no immediate announcements regarding future theatrical or musical projects.
- Watch Ex-Mets Star Jose Iglesias Makes Broadway Debut in Trending Video Bleacher Report
- OMG: Ex-Mets infielder José Iglesias joins Tony-winning Buena Vista Social Club ABC7 Eyewitness News
- Video: Watch José 'Candelita' Iglesias Make His Broadway Debut in BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB BroadwayWorld
- Photos: See Former Mets Player José 'Candelita' Iglesias Make Broadway Debut in Buena Vista Social Club Playbill
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