Photo courtesy of CAPA
Bicentennial Park will be filled with an energy to match the August heat during the two-day 2015 Festival Latino.
The event will be marked by the performance of headliners Luis Vargas and Oscar D’Leon playing Aug. 8 and 9, respectively. The free and family-friendly function will be held from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. both days and is presented by the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts.
While they have different sounds, Vargas and D’Leon both have considerable talent. Vargas, one of the most popular Bachata musicians of the Dominical Republic, was one of the first to play this genre with the electric guitar. Vargas has been an active in live performances over recent years, and has added an element of Reggaeton to his performances. Joining Vargas on Saturday will be another Dominican-born performer, Jose Peña Suazo playing trumpet in his merengue musical group La Banda Gorda. They are known internationally for their Caribbean flavor and diverse musical style.
D’Leon, also known as “Salsa’s Lion,” is one of the most world renowned creators and performers of salsa and Caribbean music. The Venezuelan singer has recorded more than 50 albums in a musical career of more than 30 years. Also performing on Sunday will be the Banda Machos, the Mexican band noted for their early contributions to the Quebradita genre. Known as “Queen of the Bands,” they are touring in celebration of their 25 year career.
For more information, visit www.festivallatino.net.
