Incanto isn’t slowing down for summer, in fact just the opposite! There are packed houses, night after night, as they showcase a wide-range of gifted local talent.
One of the most recent finds is new local band Azúca. They continue to draw nice crowds for their unique Gypsy swing, Latin jazz and Cuban music. Often, their Special Guest Tongo Letongue (formerly a local fireman), plays percussion and a handmade flute with them. His outstanding vocals and musicianship only enhance the band’s already great sound. They play on Wednesdays and Sundays at 7:30pm. Open Mic on Thursdays at 7pm is also consistently drawing big crowds and lots of new talent weekly. Hosted by Tracy Parks, with Chris Kenny accompanying on guitar, local acts are encouraged to come network with one another and to take the stage, sometimes together, making for some great impromptu collaborations. Other nights are equally popular with Sylvie & Jorge on Tuesdays at 8pm packing them in week after week! (please note, no shows July 4 & 11). ‘The Joanie Show’ with Joan Houston and Salvatore on Fridays at 7:30. And Chris Kenny’s solo show with Special Guests, including Diego Mondragon and Cheko Ruiz of Gypsy Rumba most recently, is a big hit as well. Much more to come this summer in their comfortable piano bar space, ice cold air-conditioning and daily July drink specials of 2×1 house cocktails/martinis/wine, make it even better!
One of the best things about Incanto is their wonderful and attentive staff. General Manager, Gilberto Figueroa is responsible for a large part of its success. Originally from Guadalajara, Gilberto, or Gil for short, studied International Business at the university there. Since then, he has worked in and managed other businesses in the service industry over the years, and was part owner of the former Los Equipales bar in the Romantic Zone. A member of owner Tracy Parks’ team for several years now, Gil is an integral part of the organization’s daily operations, from the box office and cabaret theater, to the cafe, piano bar and everything in-between. You can also catch him filling in behind the bar. When not working (which is rare!) he enjoys reading and writing short stories, taking influences from Edgar Allan Poe among others. In addition to managing Incanto, Gil hopes to once again own his own bar in the future. “It’s a challenge and I enjoy it a lot. I am very proud of the success of Incanto and look forward to another great season ahead”, he said. Be sure to say hello, next time you’re there.
Aunt Pearl’s Red, White & Tuna Fiesta July 4th celebration starts at 4pm with BBQ grilled hamburgers, hot dogs and entertainment in the piano bar. The new Salsa Night with Renzo including performance and instruction, debuts July 4th at 7pm. Watch their calendar for more dates.‘Two Tenors’ premiers on July 4th & 5th at 8pm in the cabaret theater. Tickets on sale now. Singer/Spanish guitarist Gabriel Reyes plays Fri. & Sat. at 10:30. BINGO with Pearl fundraisers are held on Saturdays at 5pm with lots of comedy, great prizes, and entertainment. And Beverly Fairfax, Incanto’s Marketing Director, will celebrate his birthday with a big party in the piano bar with a variety of great entertainment, including Azúca, on July 6th starting at 6:30pm. All are welcome!
More info and online tickets are available at www.IncantoVallarta.com. Hours are 9am -11:30pm Tues.- Sun. with all-day meal service. Salvatore plays piano 10am-2pm. Happy Hour is 2-6pm with 2×1 house cocktails, martinis and wine all day/night in July. For bookings contact Incanto’s General Manager, Gilberto Figueroa, via email at [email protected]. Incanto is located at Insurgentes 109 (at the Rio Cuale). Box Office opens at 10am. Call 322 223 9756 for reservations. Closed Mondays.
