Fireworks concert promises a fuse good tunes

The Newport Symphony Orchestra at the Ocean presents a performance devoted to the color and vitality of Mexican traditional and classical music this weekend.

Join the NSO and one of Mexico’s most outstanding sopranos, Mónica Abrego, at the Newport Performing Arts Center for “Latin Fireworks” on Saturday and Sunday, March 19 and 20.

Abrego has performed to great acclaim on stages around the world in a diverse repertoire which includes folk, popular, opera and oratorio.

“I am so delighted to be bringing a star like Mónica Abrego to Newport and to be devoting a program to some of the most popular treasures in Mexican music,” NSO Music Director Adam Flatt said. “The vivid rhythm and color of the orchestral works combined with Mónica’s beautiful voice and charisma will make for one exceptional concert.”

The spectacular set of selected songs from the Mexican and Spanish repertoire will include: “Sones de Mariachi” by Blas Galindo, “El Salón México” by Aaron Copland, “Danzón no. 2” by Arturo Márquez, “Huapango” by José Pablo Moncayo and “Sobre las Olas” by Juventino Rosas.

Maestro Flatt will give a pre-concert talk at 6:45 pm on Saturday night only.

The concerts will begin at 7:30 pm on Saturday and 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $30.25 for general admission, $45.50 for preferred seating and $10 for children. The Newport Performing Arts Center is located at 777 W. Olive Street. For more information, go to coastarts.org or call 541-265-2787.