Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Some success stories begin in the most simple way. A gifted musician takes the floor at a crowded public market located inside a community center. He begins to play his instrument and within seconds, people are completely captivated.
One of the many who were impressed happened to be Ric Lehman, director of the Paradise Community Center (PCC.) It didn’t take Lehman long to invite the gifted guitarist to perform in an upcoming concert showcasing local talent at the PCC. The response from the humble musician was equally speedy and enthusiastic, "Si!"
Lehman excitedly describes the response from the audience at that Showcase Vallarta concert, featuring this virtually unknown guitarista extraordinaire named Eduardo Leon, as "electric". He says Leon was an "instant hit" and he witnessed audience members standing, clapping, and shouting their approval and appreciation. "Everyone was simply overwhelmed by Eduardo’s guitar skills."
The next step was to book Eduardo Leon into his own concert on the PCC stage. The response from the audience at that inaugural concert was just as enthusiastic. That was nearly two years ago and since then, Leon continues to win new fans whenever he plays.
Eduardo frequently partners with other notable musicians and performers, including Jorge Acosta, Kim Kuzma, and Enrique Jimenez. The first half of this show will be flamenco-themed with an instrumental focus, and will feature a special guest flautist. The second half will have a Latin theme and feature the vocals of Jorge Acosta. Leon recently recorded a CD with Jorge Acosta and it will be available for purchase at the show.
"An Evening with Eduardo Leon and Friends" will take the Paradise Community Center Stage on Saturday, January 12th, at 8 pm. Advance tickets for are now on sale for only $200 pesos for the concert only, or $350 pesos for a special Mexican dinner with the concert which starts at 6:30 pm. VIP tickets are also available, which include reserved front-row seating and two complimentary drinks; these tickets usually sell out early, so you need to act fast.
Jazz aficionados will also be happy to hear that one of the most highly acclaimed jazz quartets anywhere, the "Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars," will be playing on the PCC stage on Friday, January 11th.
You can get Paradise Stage tickets online at ParadiseCommunityCenter.com or at the PCC box office, located at 127 Pulpito in the Zona Romantica, just up the street from La Palapa restaurant on Los Muertos beach.
The Paradise Community Center is located on Pulpito street across from Coco's Kitchen and the former Kit Kat on the South side of Vallarta. It is home to the Book and Bean Coffee Shop and book exchange, the new Alexander Hair Salon, and the Worship in Paradise Church services on Sunday mornings. For more information, call 044-322-170-4261, send an email to info(at)paradisecommunitycenter.com, or visit ParadiseCommunityCenter.com.