Carnaval: Streets of Love
"Carnaval: Streets of Love added a charming original story to the engaging music, spectacular choreography, and exquisite costumes that have characterized the production over the years. Frank and Pilar’s commitment to cultural authenticity and diversity, combined with their professionalism, passion, and desire to educate audiences of all ages, have brought this show to a level of world-class excellence, while continuing to engage and delight our own community." Reeve Love (Ph.D), Performing Arts Director, National Hispanic Cultural Center
The Music & Choreography of Carnaval
Music, lyrics & direction by Frank Leto.
Arrangements by Frank Leto & Cesar Bauvallet.
Choreography by Pilar Leto & the Odara Dance Ensemble.
Musical Director: Cesar Bauvallet.
Playwright: Kate Smith. Co-Director: Monica Sanchez.
Video clips of the music and choreography behind the musical concept of Carnaval: Streets of Love.
Streets of Love: Brazil
Bahia, Brazil celebrates Carnaval with of course samba, but also features Capoiera (Brazilian martial art performed to a one stringed instrument called the berimbao), Frevo (a gymnastic style of dance performed with an umbrella), Samba Reggae (unique to Bahia) and the Bateria or army of percussion (repique, cuica, surdo, agogo, tamborim, ganza ect).
Streets of Love: Trinidad
Trinidad and Tobago celebrate Carnaval with Calypso music and the sound of steel drums. Moko Jumbi's dance on stilts making them 12 feet tall and Flag women wave the flags of their steel band with a flirtatious dance.
Streets of Love: Cuba
Carnaval in Cuba swings to the latin beat "Comparsa", which features horns, congas, frying pans and cow bells. The dance is famous throughout the world as the "Conga Line". Folklore plays an important role in Cuban culture, the Rumba is a style of music and dance totally unique to Cuba, while the worship of Oricha's (African god's and goddeses like Elegua, Chango and Yemaya) were imported to Cuba via Africa.
Street of Love: New Orleans
Mardi Gras in New Orleans takes to the streets with parades and bands. Street musicians perform blues, jazz, zydeco and more. Revelers collect Mardi Gras beds and display them proudly.
Streets of Love: Miami
Carmela pursues her dance career in Miami teaching salsa to seniors until the audition of a lifetime is presented to her.
The Songs of Carnaval
All music, lyrics and arrangements by Frank Leto. Live music recordings from the Carnaval: Streets of Love performance 2014 below:
"Feed Your Soul"
"Room to Move"
"Kabiosile"
"Iansa"
"Mardi Gras Beads"
"Com Pe"
"One More Night"
"Elegua"