Morning Star Staff
Colourful Mediterranean music is about to arrive at the Creekside Theatre in Lake Country.
For more than 10 years, Les Noces Gitanes has offered a richly unique show, merging the styles of the Mediterranean peoples in a joyful hybrid.
Their musical voyage traverses the Balkans to Andalucia and through to the Maghreb region of western North Africa.
“We’re pleased to have this dynamic act performing at the Creekside Theatre July 20 in between their commitments to shows in Calgary and Vancouver Folkfest,” said cultural development coordinator. Ryan Donn, “Lake Country’s own Creekside Theatre draws an appreciative audience from locals and visitors as well as residents of nearby Kelowna and Vernon. The blend of international performers that make up Les Noces Gitanes provide for a lively show for all ages.”
Brothers and founders of Les Noces Gitanes, Alejandro and Aurelien Ugarte Mendia, found inspiration for their group while travelling the Tzigane villages of Romania with various musicians and in Jerez de la Frontera, the Mecca of flamenco. Their unique style quickly attracted artists from varying cultures and together they created a distinctive sound.
Today, Les Noces Gitanes boasts seven artists whose ethnicities span the globe, including a hypnotic flamenco dancer with Indian roots.
Their latest album, La Luna y El Sol (Sept., 2015) blends contemporary sounds with flamenco and Arab song, Balkan fanfare and percussive footwork.
It is the result of a wealth of talent emanating from a myriad of cultural influences.
With an international following, Les Noces Gitanes has performed in France, Morocco, Russia, Switzerland, Canada and Ecuador.
Tickets to the July 20, 7:30 p.m. performance at Creekside Theatre can be purchased online for $25 at creeksidetheatre.com.
