Salsa-Sensation Grupo Niche of Colombia Takes Center Stage at PVDFest

Rhythm and dance of Salsa will take over Providence’s signature arts festival Friday, June 7 with free performance from world-renowned Latin Grammy winning act

PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Jorge O. Elorza, the Department of Art, Culture + Tourism and founding partner FirstWorks today announced that Salsa-sensation Grupo Niche of Colombia, will take center stage for a free performance at the fifth edition of PVDFest. Providence’s signature arts festival, happening June 6-9, 2019 will place the spotlight on the Latin Grammy winning group known as “The Salsa Experience” for its signature sounds of trompetas y timbales on Friday, June 7 at 9:30PM at the PVDFest City Stage located at 25 Dorrance Street, Providence.

“I’m excited that music lovers will lose themselves in the rhythm and dance of Salsa at PVDFest with a special performance from Grupo Niche,” said Mayor Jorge O. Elorza. “From the best local talent, to legendary international acts – our signature festival offers something for everyone to enjoy and dance the night away.”

Grupo Niche is known for both its vigorous, up tempo dance music as well as slower-paced romantic numbers. Founded 40 years ago in what is referred to by some as the “world salsa capital” of Cali, Colombia, the group is considered a national treasure. Through numerous international tours since its inception, their high-voltage, live performances have reached music fans of all ages and backgrounds.

“Marking year five of PVDFest, FirstWorks is delighted to bring international stars of music, dance and live performance spectacles each year as part of the essential fabric of this world class festival,” said Kathleen Pletcher, FirstWorks Founder and Executive Artistic Director. “Introducing a mix of cultural icons like Grupo Niche to local audiences is what makes PVDFest unique and celebrates Providence as the Creative Capital.”

Salsa is regarded as a dynamic and incredibly influential form of Latin music that has captivated and inspired audiences across continents. The upbeat, energetic and fun style draws inspiration from Afro-Cuban music and incorporates elements from other Latin American music genres. It rose in popularity in the U.S. in the 1960’s as masses in New York City fell in love with the dance music.

Leading up to Grupo Niche’s special performance, rising stars will get the crowd going to the sounds of Bachata, Merengue, Reggaeton and other Latin dance music as part La Super Fiesta (The Super Party), which offers of a diverse lineup curated by local marketing agency GM Communications. Featured acts include local fan-favorite DJ George, Connecticut-based XDance Group, Soraiya (Soraiya Marines) and EhShawnee. Soraiya is an up-and-coming singer who has participated in over 30 performances including the City of Providence’s July 4th Celebration, the Dominican Festival of RI, PUMA (Peace Unity Music Arts) Fest and previous PVDFest editions. EhShawnee is a native of the Dominican Republic who began her music career in Providence and has been touring throughout the U.S. promoting her new single “Tu Dama de Hierro.” She recently won the Best New Artist award at Premios Conga de la Salsa in the Dominican Republic.