The Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill and OLA of Eastern Long Island presents Pachanga, a high-charged night of dance and music with Mambo Loco — a crowd favorite band that blends classic Afro-Cuban and Puerto Rican music with “old school” Latin and Latin jazz — and drummer, vocalist, and performance artist Mila Tina, who combines percussion, dance, martial arts, music production, and visual design in performances that are multi-sensory experiences. The event will also highlight guest artist, Wu Woman.
The event, which is themed ““Vision and Action,” takes place outdoors on the covered terrace of the museum on Friday, August 20, at 6:30 PM, rain or shine.
“We are excited about bringing Pachanga back in a safe and novel way this year,” said Minerva Perez, executive director of OLA of Eastern Long Island. “Vision without action translates to pretty yet empty words. OLA is working to secure a healthier, safer, and more equitable East End for all. The only way to do this well is to build bridges and celebrate culture side-by-side along with all the advocacy initiatives we are running. Pachanga encourages us to dance across that bridge together.”
Carolina Fuentes, a.k.a. Mila Tina, is an international interdisciplinary artist and educator based in New York who captivates audiences with high-energy and empowering solo performances. Playing on an original standing arrangement of drums and percussion instruments, Mila combines elements of martial arts with dance, and incorporates lighting effects and empowerment-themed video design in her shows. She serves as drummer for several music projects in New York, playing the traditional drum set as well as hand percussion instruments. Mila has regularly jammed with members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, as well as members of Paul Simon’s famed rhythm section.
Mambo Loco’s lead vocalist and conguero Larry Belford has performed with renowned Latin ensembles in New York. Alfredo Gonzalez (trombone, violin, percussion, and vocals) adds a Latin flavor that reflects his Puerto Rican heritage. Berklee College of Music alumni Bill Smith (piano, melodica, and vocals) and Wayne Burgess (bass and vocals) round out the extraordinary musicianship of the group.
Pre-registration is suggested as space is limited on the terrace. Guests are encouraged to visit the Covid-19 guidelines section of the website at parrishart.org, and to bring their own chairs as museum seating is not available.