Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County proudly hosts the return of the hit musical CELIA: THE LIFE & MUSIC OF CELIA CRUZ. From June 2 – 28, 2009, South Florida audiences will witness the amazing story of how the marvelous “queen of salsa” rose to musical fame over the course of 60 years. The last CELIA: THE LIFE & MUSIC OF CELIA CRUZ run at the Arsht Center drew more than 20,000 attendees and was the launching point for the show’s international tour.
From a modest childhood in Cuba to performing on a global scale for millions of fans, CELIA magically tells the legend’s tale of rising to international super-stardom from the point of view of her beloved husband, Pedro Knight. Showcasing a superb ensemble of 18 astounding singers, incredible dancers and talented musicians, this grand encore performance highlights Celia Cruz’s journey to becoming one of the most significant Hispanic singers the world has ever known. Presentations include captivating song performances, dazzling storytelling, heartfelt dialogue, electrifying dance choreography and many of the glamorous costumes worn by the stylish salsa icon. The show is performed in Spanish with select performances each week containing bilingual dialogue (English and Spanish). All songs, however, are sung in Spanish during every performance.
“Celia’s music lives on in the hearts of many and her many powerful messages remind us of what is important in life,” said M. John Richard, President and CEO of the Adrienne Arsht Center. He continued, “Celia lives on at the Adrienne Arsht Center this summer.”
Last summer, the Adrienne Arsht Center was proud to present the dynamic musical on the legendary salsa queen for the first time in Miami. It was a huge hit that received raved reviews and attracted an array of celebrity patrons including Latin music sensation Jon Secada, talk show host Cristina Saralegui, Miami rapper Pitbull and CSI Miami star David Caruso. The captivating storyline, contagious music, tremendous performances and incredibly successful Miami debut at the Adrienne Arsht Center ultimately led to an exciting world tour for the musical.
Music director Isidro Infante (who performed with the real Cruz) brings his genius to the stage by leading a seven-piece band and complementing the incomparable Anissa Gathers who returns in the role of Celia along with a talented ensemble. Audiences will be thrilled to hear live renditions of dozens of Celia Cruz’s beloved songs, including “Guantanamera,” “Químbara,” “Toro Mata,” and “La Vida es un Carnaval.” A fan favorite highlights the encore performance – “La Bomba” – the salsa queen’s revolutionary musical collaboration with salsa legend Tito Puente in the 70’s which pioneered salsa music as we know it today.
Spanning a journey of 60 successful years in music, CELIA shares the salsa star’s tale of challenge, defiance, aspiration, courage, fame, adversity, grief – and ultimately, an undying love of her husband, country, music, and fans. CELIA is co-written by husband and wife team Carmen Rivera and Candido Tirado. Henry Cardenas, Gerry Fojo and Daddy Yankee produced CELIA (the same duo behind the well known musical, Who Killed Hector Lavoe?). One of Spain’s highly accomplished theatre and television directors, Jaime Azpilicueta, joins the cast of talent once again.
TICKETS
Tickets for CELIA: THE LIFE & MUSIC OF CELIA CRUZ are now on pre-sale for Arsht Center members. To become a member today and receive priority seating, please call 305.949.6722. Tickets go on public sale on Saturday, April 4 at 11:00 a.m.
Single ticket prices range from $60-$125. Tickets priced at $125 are for the VIP seating package that includes a post-performance meet and greet with cast members, and an autographed poster. Tickets are available through the Adrienne Arsht Center box office at 305.949.6722 or online at www.arshtcenter.org.
Groups 15 or more contact 786.468.2326.
