EL CANTANTE - Cito sings Spanish favourites at Le Canard

A first of its kind for SA audiences: renowned singer Cito presents a programme of his Spanish favourites, proudly hosted by Le Canard's Supper Club on Friday 16th November at 7pm.

Back by popular demand, now with his brand new show; “Cito – El Cantante” (the singer), Cito heads back to his Puerto Rican roots, performing his unique acoustic versions of the Spanish classics that he grew up listening to.

Cito was born in Los Angeles, California and most of his childhood was spent in an Hispanic community in Queens, New York City. Both parents influenced Cito with their musical abilities - especially his Puerto Rican mother who sang and played Spanish guitar.

Now living in South Africa since his teens, Cito is best known as the frontman of the legendary award-winning rock band, WONDERboom; currently celebrating their 16th year on the local music scene. Showcasing his diversity in recent years, Cito has had media and audiences alike raving at his heart-stopping portrayal of Jesus in the hit musical Jesus Christ Superstar; Frederick Trumper in Chess - The Musical and more recently singing Queen's music in Queen at the Ballet.

Performing alongside Cito in Cito – El Cantante will be guitarist extraordinaire; 12-time SAMA nominee MARTIN SCHOFIELD - founding member, alongside Cito, of WONDERboom, and has notched up many other accolades including most recently being the MD of the 2012 SAMA Awards as well as Idols SA Season 8. One of Martin's favourite sayings is "You make music with people, the notes come later" and its on this basis that he's thrilled to be partnering with long-time friend and fellow musician to explore an ongoing desire of his to go out of his comfort zone to perform music hispanically.

And with Cito also on guitar, audiences will be provided an evening of pure delight, seeing these two seasoned performers, in this intimate setting as never before.

The rhythms and styles of tango, mambo, tejano, mariachi and traditional folklorica are included in the musical line-up. Pop favourites presented in Cito’s unique arrangements include Cielito Lindo, La Bamba, Besame Mucho, Cancion del Mariachi, En Mi Viejo San Juan, El Cuarto de Tula, Mi Tierra (Gloria Estefan) and Sobrevivire (I Will Survive)

Says Cito, "These classics are part of my best childhood memories, singing them around our home constantly but have never performed them on stage before."

He continues; "I'm thrilled to be back at one of my favourite venues, Le Canard, ready to head outside my comfort zone and perform these songs to an audience for the very first time. I think that my mother would be proud. I'm nervous and excited at the same time; I can't wait!"

Chet Diepraam of Le Canard adds to the air of excitement, “We have had quite a few “firsts” this year, and this Supper Club event in particular is going to be quite special. Nervous energy and professionalism of these entertainers and the sexy Latin French cuisine will present an exceptional and avant-garde evening. Olé!”

A specially prepared 4-course menu of Spanish Latin influence, with choices, will be enjoyed by diners. Expect a few passionate red chilli notes mixed with cool salsa surprises, but still keeping the French influence of Le Canards award-winning kitchen, with guidance from Chef Patron Freda Appelbaum.

The exclusive wine partner for the event is award-heavy Graham Beck Estate, beginning with the luscious Brut Rose, then a selection of the Game Reserve range in proud support of Cito’s rhino-awareness and Peace Starts "Pledge for Peace" campaign.

Friday 16 November 2012, 7pm

Tickets for the soiree are at R390, and are all inclusive of dinner, wines and show.

Bookings are on 011 884 4597 or lecanard@icon.co.za