Puerto Vallarta’s Arte Vallarta Museo gears up for its “Night of the Iguana” festivities, celebrating the 60th anniversary of John Huston’s iconic film, with a charming musical prelude by Paraiso Ensemble. This trio, a spin-off of the renowned Puerto Vallarta orchestra, will serenade the audience starting at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, January 24.
The concert promises an enchanting program that spans various musical genres. The repertoire includes selections from Benjamin Frankel’s evocative movie soundtrack, traditional Mexican songs and boleros, and masterpieces by renowned impressionist composers such as Debussy, Faure, Gaubert, Delibes, as well as American icons Gershwin and Joplin. The talented trio, comprising flautists Andrea Jupina and Olga Martinez, alongside pianist Jean-Guy Comeau, is poised to deliver a captivating performance.
Tennessee Williams’ The Night of the Iguana, initially a play that debuted on Broadway in 1961, was adapted into a film in 1964, featuring Richard Burton as the protagonist, Shannon. Ava Gardner, Deborah Kerr, and Sue Lyon of Lolita fame round out the star-studded cast of this 125 minute classic movie, which will be shown during the festivities.
The film’s story revolves around Shannon, a defrocked alcoholic minister battling personal demons while guiding tourists through sun-drenched Mexico. The titular iguana, as Google enigmatically informs us, could symbolize societal constraints, Shannon’s internal struggle, or even the broader human experience.
Immerse yourself in the film’s timeless allure with this enchanting musical appetizer. Tickets to the event are priced at 500 pesos at the door and a discounted rate of 400 pesos for those who purchase online in advance. Don’t miss the opportunity to revel in an evening of artistic brilliance and commemorate the enduring legacy of The Night of the Iguana in the heart of Vallartenses.
Arte Vallarta Museo is located at G. Prieto 164, Colonia El Remance, Puerto Vallarta, 48389.