An ongoing musical tribute to a legendary Argentinian tango band leader comes to Victoria for two distinct shows next week: one for listeners, the other for dancers.
The 11-piece Orchestra La Juan D’arienzo, formed in 2012 in Buenos Aires, brings its vibrant, swinging sound to the Alix Goolden Hall for a Feb. 26 concert event, then the venue shifts to the Victoria Event Centre the next night for a rousing dance party.
The orchestra plays in the original style made famous by Juan D’Arienzo, who was known as the Rey del Compás, or the King of the Rhythm during his heyday between 1950 and 1976, when he passed away. And there’s a family connection at play: current bandoneónist Facundo Lazzari, is the grandson of D’Arienzo’s original bandoneon player and arranger for the orchestra, Carlos Lazzari.
The orchestra will also feature bass voice soloist Fernando Rodas, whose singing will augment the musical passion on the night, and professional tango dancers Joaquin Besga and Laura Smith.
Tickets for Feb. 26 ($45-$50) are available at the Victoria Conservatory of Music box office, 900 Johnson St., or online at vcm.bc.ca/events. Tickets to the dance ($45 in advance, $50 at the door) can be purchased by calling Diane Tolomeo at 250-721-3049, emailing dtolomeo@uvic.ca. For more information visit Islandtango.ca.
editor@mondaymag.com
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