Tacoma Musical Playhouse Will Sizzle When It Premieres "Samba To Soul" To The World

Mambo. Cha Cha. Rumba. Samba. Salsa.

Even the names of these Latin-flavored dances  pulse with rhythm and fiery passion. Imagine seeing them performed by a dazzling Brazilian dance troupe. Feel the soulful romance of traditional Latin standards, featuring trumpet, acoustic guitar, bass, accordion, piano and hand percussion.

You can experience all that, and more, starting at 8 p.m., June 18, when the internationally acclaimed smooth Latin jazz trumpeter, singer, and entertainer Bobby Medina launches his brand new production, "Samba to Soul," at the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. It will even feature some of Medina's original Latin jazz compositions.

Produced by another well-known trumpeter, Lance Buller, in cooperation with TMP, this show continues the popular series called Jazz@TMP, now in its fifth year.  The one-night event could easily sell out early, especially considering all it has to offer and Medina's fame.

"Touring around the world has opened my eyes to numerous cultures and
musical styles," Medina told Patch via e-mail. "This is the inspiration for my latest show entitled 'Samba to Soul.' This production is an exciting musical journey through the Americas and beyond that shares insights into the music and dance of different lands."

In addition to touring nationally and internationally with Ray Charles, Medina has played behind Frankie Valli, Mel Torme, Bobby Vinton, Chubby Checker, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Spinners, The Coasters, Martha & the Vandellas, The Platters, and other legends.

But even in the scope of an impressive career, this show at TMP will still stand out because it is a world premier in a perfect setting.

"The purpose of the Jazz@TMP series is to bring top-shelf entertainment to Tacoma in a venue that is dedicated strictly to live performance," Buller said. "Tacoma Musical Playhouse is conducive to the best possible performance, the best possible experience for both the entertainer and the audience, because it's a comfortable space with great accoustics and no distractions."

Medina's "Samba to Soul" offers an evening rich with musical and visual excitement. The stage will fill with color and movement as members of  The Tudo Beleza Brazilian Dance Company, in authentic costumes, thrill the audience with their Brazilian Samba and Cuban Salsa dancing.

Described as "fast-paced" and "interactive," the show is bound to be full of surprises, just like Medina himself. He grew up in Los Angeles listening to traditional jazz and Latin music at home with his family, while being influenced by the pop, funk, and soul he heard on the radio. That eclectic blend produced Medina's own unique approach to combining styles and inspired him to refashion traditional Latin songs with a contemporary flavor.

Both listeners and dancers rave about his shows. Those lucky enough to see "Samba to Soul" will even take home a bit of musical enlightenment.

"Audiences of all ages will experience world class talent and a fun time
while gaining new insights into the arts," Medina said.

The show begins at 8 p.m on Saturday, June 18. Tickets cost $25 and can be purchased by calling TMP at 253-565-6867, through the online box office, or in person by visiting the theater at 7116 Sixth Avenue, in Tacoma.

So, do you still plan to buy Dad that tie for Father's Day? Come on. Give him a gift he'll really love: tickets for "Samba to Soul."