Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival

Received word of this via Las Comadres Network:

BROWNSVILLE – The Ninth Annual Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival, Oct. 13-16, features nightly dance concerts and a Sunday afternoon street party. The festival headliner this year is top Conga player, Giovanni Hidalgo, and his Latin jazz ensemble based out of New York City. Opening for Hidalgo is Melena, considered the top female Latin jazz percussionist, and her eight piece band based out of Los Angeles.

“Because of the talent that is being brought, this is one of the most exquisite jazz festivals in the U.S.” – Henry Brun, Henry Brun and the Latin Playerz (Brownsville Herald 10/29/05).

As the heat of summer fade into perfect balmy evenings, it’s time for normally laid-back locals to cut loose and dance.

This year’s festival opens Oct. 13 with “Latin Jazz Jam at Las Campanas,” a free outdoor concert featuring Tomás Ramirez, Charles Hearn and other regional performers, from 8-12 p.m. at the Las Campanas Mall at corner of Rubén Torres (FM 802) & Paredes Line Rd. in North Brownsville.

Friday night is “Michelob-Ultra Latin Dance Night” the Rio Grande Valley’ premier Salsa dance event featuring the Shati Orchestra from San Antonio and showcases by Salsa dance masters from throughout Texas. Jacob Brown Auditorium, doors open 7 p.m. and event concludes at 2 a.m.. Tickets are $20. Purchase discount tickets online at www.brosociety.org or at the door on the night of the event. Discounted advance ticket sales start August 15 (online only).

The Jacob Brown Auditorium is transformed into a tropical nightclub for “Night at the Copa with Giovanni Hidalgo,” Saturday, 8-12 p.m. Melena and her eight piece band open for Giovanni Hidalgo and his Latin jazz ensemble. Food and beverages on sale. Mojito cocktails, beer and wine available. Reserve tables are $500, purchase at brosociety.org or call (956) 831-9590 for more information. $20 general admission tickets will be available at the door the night of the event.

THE “CAPITOL THEATRE STREET PARTY” on Sunday is a free outdoor concert in front of the Capitol Theatre in Historic Downtown Brownsville. Acts to include Chuchito Valdes Jr. (Chicago), Rosalia de Cuba (Houston), Melena and others. This is a popular family event with food vendors, art show and dance exhibitions. Event opens at 3 p.m. and concludes at 10 p.m. Located on Levee Street between 10th and 12th Streets. Take Expressway 77/83 to 6th St., exit south to St. Charles St. and turn left. Drive to 11th St. Free parking available on street.

For more information and advance ticket sales, visit www.brosociety.org or call (956) 831-9590.

WHAT: Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival
WHEN: Oct. 13-16 (Thurs -Sun)
WHERE:
Thursday - “Latin Jazz Jam at Las Campanas,” at Paseo de la Resaca
FREE, 8 p.m.-12 midnight
Friday - "Michelob-Ultra Latin Dance Night" at Jacob Brown
Auditorium, $20, 7 p.m.-2 a.m.
Saturday - "Night at the Copa with Giovanni Hidalgo" $500 reserve
tables, $20 gen. admission at the
door. 7 p. m.-12 midnight.
Sunday - Capitol Theatre Street Party in Brownsville's Historic
District. FREE, 3 p.m.-10 p.m.

Tickets and complete schedule available online at brosociety.org.