Esperanza Fernandez & Gonzalo Rubalcaba

Artistic residency: Oh Vida!

In Oh Vida! – Rubalcaba & Fernández pay tribute to legendary Cuban big bandleader Beny Moré, “El Bárbaro del Ritmo.” Moré’s many unforgettable hits include “Que Bueno Baila Usted” and “Cómo Fue.” At this performance, a zesty flamenco twist will be added to his work when Grammy-winning Cuban pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba and Spanish singer Esperanza Fernández join forces to present a new take on a set of classic songs.

The program would not be complete without a proper flamenco counterpoint, though, so Rubalcaba and Fernández also pay tribute to Manolo Caracol from Seville. Caracol was a heartfelt and flamboyant cantaor, or flamenco singer, who performed with depth and passion. He was regarded as an embodiment of duende, a Spanish artistic concept representing soulfulness and authenticity.

Commissioned by The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Arts of Miami Dade County

Esperanza Fernandez & Gonzalo Rubalcaba