Leslie Cartaya at Marco Island Center for the Arts

Join us for an enchanting evening of music as the Marco Island Center for the Arts welcomes Leslie Cartaya on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 5:30 pm. 

Renowned for her captivating blend of traditional Cuban rhythms, jazz, and American funk, Leslie Cartaya promises to deliver a performance that will resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. Cartaya’s performance is part of ¡Arte Viva! the Collier County celebration of Hispanic Arts and Culture. Born and raised in Cuba, Leslie Cartaya's musical journey is deeply rooted in her cultural heritage. From her earliest memories of warm afternoons spent improvising melodies with her close-knit family to her emergence, as a solo artist with her debut album "No Pares" in 2013, Cartaya's passion for music has been unwavering.

"No Pares," a 19-track masterpiece, showcases Cartaya's exceptional talent as both a vocalist and a composer. Drawing inspiration from Caribbean, Afro-American, Afro-Latin, and Latin American musical traditions, Cartaya effortlessly fuses these influences to create a harmonious musical experience.

"Singing is Leslie’s best therapy," says a close associate. "She has a unique ability to express a wide range of emotions through her music, from joy and passion to sadness and introspection."

Prior to her solo career, Cartaya co-founded the acclaimed musical group "Palo!" The group's debut album, "This is Afrocuban Funk," received widespread acclaim, with the New York Times hailing it as "the Cuban music of the new generation." Cartaya's contributions to "Palo!" earned her a Latin Grammy and a Grammy nomination, as well as a Sun Coast Emmy for the group's soundtrack to the documentary "Miami Boheme."

Audiences can expect an unforgettable evening of music as Leslie Cartaya joins the Marco Island Center for the Arts to conclude the 2023-2024 season of Musical Interludes. Tickets for Musical Interludes with Leslie Cartaya are available online at www.marcoislandart.org/musical-interludes/ or by calling 239-394-4221.

Ticket prices are as follows:

Members: $25

Non-Members: $30

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Leslie Cartaya live in concert. Join us for an evening of soul-stirring music and unforgettable melodies.