Latin Wave Twilight Concert strikes chord in Pier audiences
Concert goers relax in the synthetic grass section during the "Twilight on the Pier" concert series on the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California. (Josh Nicoloro/The Corsair)
On any given day, the Santa Monica Pier hosts a wide variety of visitors, from the local Los Angeles native to the overseas tourist. However, the Santa Monica Pier’s Twilight Summer Concert on August 28th served to acknowledge the beauty and appreciation of cultures different from one’s own.
Running with the theme of “Local Meets Global,” this week’s evening 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 just seemed drawn by the emphasis on music unfamiliar to them. For some audience members, the theme led them to face the lack of cultural diversity they have experienced in their own lives.
“I’ve never really experienced having different cultures connect together…different cultures coming together as one…so I think [the concert series] is a good idea,” said first-time attendee Violet.
For other crowd members, the night’s cultural inclusion struck an unexpected personal chord. Promoting diversity on a more public scale through a positive lens seemed to particularly resonate with audience members of Latin background, thus heightening their connection to the music.
“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, the somber tones and enticing lyricism 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.”
Amidst the emotionally-riveting music and captivating performances, other attractions of the event were somewhat overlooked. The comedy stage, for instance, was a lesser-acknowledged pocket on the Pier. 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.”