Viva! Victoria Latin Fest 2024

Performers

Pablo Cardenas & The West Coast Cuban Orchestra

Pablo Cardenas & The West Coast Cuban Orchestra was formed by the internationally renowned Cuban Pianist and Composer Pablo Cardenas, putting together an all stars line up of Musicians from the Latin scene of Victoria and BC. This project has the purpose of keeping alive the Latin and Afro-Cuban music roots with a fresh sound and high energy. These highly experienced musicians are prepared to deliver with an outstanding quality at any type of event, such as dancing events, Jazz festivals or theater concerts. Since their great debut in 2011 at the Victoria Event Center, Pablo Cardenas & The West Coast Cuban Orchestra has been performing all around the best venues and festivals in the west coast of Canada.

Latin Vibes Orchestra

Latin Vibes Orchestra is a captivating 11-piece band that blends the rich, rhythmic traditions of Latin America. This versatile group, is renowned for its dynamic performances of cumbias, salsa, and other Latin genres, delivering an unforgettable experience that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. Formed in Victoria, the Latin Vibes Orchestra is a testament of cultural diversity and musical collaboration. As cultural ambassadors for Latin music in Victoria BC.

Their performances are a celebration of Latin heritage and a testament to the unifying power of music. The band’s members are from a vibrant mix of countries, including Canada, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru. This blend of backgrounds enriches their sound, infusing each performance with a unique and authentic Latin flavor. Each performance is a celebration of Latin culture, inviting listeners to dance, sing, and immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Latin music.

Mariachi Sin Frontera

Mariachi Sin Frontera is a groundbreaking 11-piece Mariachi band that has quickly become a beloved figure in the vibrant music scene of Victoria, British Columbia. As the first and only Mariachi band in the area, Mariachi Sin Frontera honors the deep-rooted traditions of Mariachi music while infusing their performances with a modern flair. Mariachi Sin Frontera is a wonderful mix of cultural influences, although they play traditional Mexican music it is composed by members from Mexico, Colombia, and Canada. This cultural diversity enriches their music, allowing them to incorporate a variety of musical styles and perspectives into their performances.

Their name, “Sin Frontera” (Without Borders), reflects their mission to bridge cultural divides and bring people together through the universal language of music. Since their formation, Mariachi Sin Frontera has been dedicated to sharing the joy of mariachi music with the community. Each show is a celebration of Mexican culture, filled with vibrant costumes, heartfelt music, and a lively atmosphere that invites everyone to join in the festivities.

Ballet Folklorico of Victoria Fiesta Latina

Ballet Folklorico Fiesta Latina is an extraordinary dance ensemble that stands as a vibrant symbol of Latin American heritage in Victoria, British Columbia. Founded by Angelique Venegas Ashton, this group has been gracing stages with their captivating performances for over a decade. As the only group in the region that represents the folkloric traditions of more than ten Latin American countries, Ballet Folklorico Fiesta Latina offers audiences an unparalleled cultural experience. Audiences are transported on a cultural journey through the vibrant rhythms of Honduras, the soulful movements of Colombian Cumbia, the passionate footwork of Mexican Zapateados, and the spirited steps of Peruvian Marinera, among others.

Each performance piece is meticulously researched and choreographed to ensure authenticity and respect for the cultural origins. Through their performances, they educate audiences about the history, significance, and stories behind each dance. This educational aspect is central to their mission, bridging cultural gaps and highlighting the shared humanity that unites diverse peoples. The ensemble is a beloved presence at local festivals, cultural events, and private celebrations throughout Victoria and beyond. Their colourful costumes, energetic performances, and engaging storytelling captivate audiences of all ages. Ballet Folklorico Fiesta Latina is deeply committed to preserving the folkloric traditions of Latin America for future generations. Their performances are not just dance shows, but immersive cultural experiences that celebrate the heart and soul ofLatin America.

Guacarmona / Daniela Cardenas

Guacarmona es un festín de géneros que pondrá a bailar a todo aquel que lo escuche. La cantautora, bailarina, actriz y periodista colombiana Daniela Carmona, hace un recorrido por diferentes estilos e influencias para presentar un material que condensa la esencia de su música. Junto al guitarrista canadiense Peter Mole, el flautista cubano Yoandry Trujillo, y el percusionista italiano Davide Sampaolo, Daniela convierte sus historias en una experiencia musical inolvidable. 

Sofia Leónne & El Slow Mo

Sofia Leónne & El Slow Mo, both Mexican artists thriving in the cultural melting pot of Victoria, BC. Fusing the sensuality of R&B and the soulful beats of rap with funky Latin rhythms. Sofia Leónne’s voice hypnotizes you, transporting you on a captivating journey from the first second. Born with a passion for storytelling, El Slow Mo intertwines his heritage with modern experiences, crafting lyrics that resonate with authenticity and depth. This time, they are joining forces alongside the band “Smooth Wave” bringing a piece of Latin heat to the Pacific Northwest, igniting a rhythmic revolution in the heart of Victoria.

Ritmo Latino Dance Group

Ritmo Latino is a Latin fusion dance group of dance enthusiasts of all ages, levels and abilities. We live in beautiful Victoria and get together to dance, learn, create and have fun. Come and join us, if you like Latin dancing and making new friends 🙂

Valeria

VALERIA, es Colombiana y desde pequeña mostró gran interés por la música, cantando en la escuela en reuniones familiares. A los 8 años ingreso a la escuela  Mozart de Colombia, participó en diferentes concursos artísticos llegando siempre a las finales. 

En su carrera musical recibió muchos no, por no querer cantar música de cantina y cantar música alegre y folclorica. Su familia siempre creyó en ella y la motivó a seguir. Nominada a mejor actriz infantil en el festival de cine nacional. Smart films.  Cantó a duo con el Maestro Juan Fé Cañón uno de los mejores pianistas de Colombia.

2 veces finalista en Concurso municipal de talentos jóvenes. Perteneció al grupo base de artistas del gobierno municipal de la ciudad de Villavicencio. Ahora llegó a Canadá a compartir su talento y un poco de la Cultura Latina. Su sueño es conocer a Adele y cantar con ella en un escenario.

Danza Colombia

Fundada en octubre de 2022, Danza Colombia surgió a partir de un llamado a la comunidad colombiana y latina para unirse a través de la alegría de la danza. El grupo evolucionó rápidamente en un colectivo cultural vibrante, con un conjunto de danza folclórica compuesto por mujeres dedicadas que celebran apasionadamente su herencia. Estas mujeres a menudo llevan a sus hijos a los ensayos, fomentando un vínculo intergeneracional e inculcando el amor por su cultura en la generación más joven.

Además de su grupo folclórico, Danza Colombia cuenta con un dinámico grupo de salsa. Este conjunto se especializa en enseñar salsa caleña, un estilo reconocido por su velocidad y precisión, a personas de diversas nacionalidades. A través de estas clases, Danza Colombia comparte el sabor vibrante e infeccioso de Colombia, construyendo una comunidad diversa unida por la danza.

En 2023, Danza Colombia amplió su alcance cultural apoyando a Tambora Fusion, un grupo musical emergente con miembros de México, Colombia, Irán y Canadá. Unidos por un amor compartido por la música colombiana, Tambora Fusion encarna el espíritu de fusión y colaboración cultural que defiende Danza Colombia.

Danza Colombia sigue prosperando como un faro de la cultura colombiana, reuniendo a personas de todas las edades y orígenes para celebrar las ricas tradiciones de la danza y la música.

Fusión Chibcha

A Colombian Folklore group from Victoria, BC, shares Colombia’s diverse culture through Indigenous and Afro-Colombian dances. Celebrating a year of dancing, they aim to strengthen community ties. In collaboration with the Vancouver Island Hispanic Network Society, the parade showcases traditional Barranquilla carnival attire, including carnival queens with feather crowns. The name Fusión Chibcha reflects a blend of traditions and music from the Caribbean and Andes, derived from the Chibcha indigenous language family. While only dancers will perform this year, a music ensemble is in the works for future events.

Natan J

A Dominican reggaeton singer. He is currently residing in Vancouver BC where he is looking to introduce Dominican urban music. Natan is a father of an 8 year old aspiring actress.

“I have always been surrounded by music, in the Dominican Republic music is everywhere whether it be Bachata, Merengue, Dembow, Reggaetón, Salsa it is in our blood. Since I was a teen I have been dancing background for other aspiring Dominican artists, putting together dance crews and writing music. When I migrated to Vancouver BC this is where I began my own platform and started bring my artistry too life which I am now known as Natan J. Music is my passion it is who I am. I am the happiest when creating my songs and bring my music to life. I am most confident on stage and writing music I am able to express what I feel and my creativity.”

Wasakaka All Stars

Wasakaka Latin Band is an independent Latin Music project founded in Vancouver, BC in 2016 by professional musicians born and raised in Latin America. We are committed to providing the people of Canada with the best quality of music and entertainment. Bringing the most authentic Latin rhythms and performing the timeless best hits of traditional Salsa Music. Keeping Latin American Culture alive in the ever-growing Vancouver’s Salsa scene. 

Wasakaka All-Stars is going to play the Real Salsa in all of Canada. Our performance has a variety of pieces that show a different way to interpret Latin Music. Also, we have a great mix of Latin Jazz, Salsa, Guaguancó, and Rumba.

Furia Latin Rock Band

FURIA LATIN ROCK BAND Una banda de rock en español o rock en tu idioma creada en el año 2019 Bajo la batuta de Sergio Urbina (Baterista) Jorge Gonzales (Voz) Carlos Cruz (Guitarra) y Eric San Martin (Bajo) deciden formar la banda por la escases de grupos de Rock que habìa en su Ciudad (Calgary Ab. Canada) iniciando en algunos bares locales tratando de darse a conocer y hacer pasar un rato agradadable y revivir todos los exitos de el rock en español de los años 80 y 90 que macaron los sentidos a todos los amantes de este genero, se matubieron juntos y  consolidandose despues de 5 años como una de las mejores bandas a nivel Nacional participando en todos lo eventos Latinos y grandes festivales  en Canada. Preparndo este año una gran Gira con su Tour llamado “El show mas largo de la Historia” estaran rockeando en ciudades como Edmonton, Vancouver, Lethbridge, Brooks, Red deer, Toronto, Montreal, Saskatchewan y ahora por primera vez llegan a Victoria con este super show para todo la gente latina con estos grandes musicos con mas…

Isabel Santos

Since moving to Victoria in 2008, I have also worked as a fitness instructor, and personal training. As a licensed ZUMBA® instructor, I teach Zumba and Zumba toning, strength training, Qigong, and the fascinating Clinical Somatic and Somatic yoga  in some locations here in Victoria.  Recently I became a Medical Exercises Specialist. 

I am a proud Cuban-born woman who instructs ZUMBA® classes in Victoria. I am one of the lucky people who truly enjoys my work. It’s my passion and my therapy. Being a ZUMBA® teacher, I use my gifts as an athlete and leader to help others dance, move, get fit, and have fun. I love to dance—it is in my blood. Come and dance with me and you too can  put a smile on your face and feel the joy.

Victoria Latin Dance Association Bachata Ladies Styling Team

Bio coming soon