By Jackie Sedley
Running with the theme of “Local Meets Global,” the Aug. 28 Twilight Concert event served to emphasize Latin culture.
Hosting the infamous Helado Negro as headliner, and featuring Banda Las Angelinas and Latinx performer San Cha, audiences found themselves enshrouded in the melancholic yet uplifting energy brought about by Latin-inspired melodies and performances.
The turnout seemed to be a cultural melting pot; while many visitors came out in support of Helado Negro, others simply seemed drawn by the emphasis on music unfamiliar to them.
For other crowd members, the night’s cultural inclusion struck a personal chord.
“I kind of like this [week’s] music better, because honestly I kind of grew up with it,” said returning concertgoer Christopher Moraga. “I know how to dance to it a little more.”
In addition the cultural diversity seen in the crowd, show also appealed to a wide variety of age demographics.
“It’s a family event,” said Boxed Water Mass Marketing Manager Thomas D’Agostino. “We also got great people anywhere from 20 to 40 to 50 years old, it’s a great mix of people.”
The comedy stage drew a smaller crowd. Nevertheless, visitors seemed to appreciate the inclusion of the stand-up stage, as it further emphasizes the diverse interests observed by attendees.
“Culture is culture, do everything you can,” said attendee Lucas Serventi when asked about his thoughts on the concert stage. “Embrace all of it.”
The Santa Monica Pier will continue to host the Twilight Concert Series on Wednesdays for the entirety of September. Continuing with cultural themes, the next four weeks consist of “Middle East Beats,” “Island Tides,” “Aussie Splash,” and “Japanese Vibes.”
This story was produced as part of a partnership between the SMC Corsair Student newspaper and the Daily Press.
editor@smdp.com
