PABLO BATISTA’S EL VIAJE (THE JOURNEY)

International percussion master, Temple Alum (’86) and Philadelphia resident Pablo Batista has performed, recorded and toured internationally for 30 years with some of the biggest stars in rhythm and blues, jazz, Latin, pop and gospel.  Now, he comes home to Temple to present the world premiere of El Viaje (The Journey).
 
El Viaje features 22 performers in an irresistible mix of authentic Afro-Cuban bata drumming, chant and dance, newly blended with elements of European classical music, jazz and blues, rhythm & blues, funk and salsa. 
 
In 8 scenes, Batista and company trace the journey of captive African cultures blended and transformed over five centuries, and how spiritual and cultural resilience ultimately enabled slaves to adapt and re-establish themselves with dignity in the New World.
 
Generously supported by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage and co-sponsored by Boyer College of Music and Dance and Taller Puertorriqueno.