The Miguel de Armas Quartet, led by the dynamic and Cuban-born pianist Miguel de Armas, is a powerhouse ensemble that brings together the richness of jazz, the vibrancy of Cuban traditional music, and the originality of Miguel’s own compositions. Known for his fast-flying creativity and heartfelt performances, Miguel is joined by an exceptional rhythm team: bassist JP Lapensée, drummer José Hernández, and the skilled conga player Arien Villegas. Together, they craft mesmerizing musical arrangements that captivate audiences with their energy, technical brilliance, and infectious joy.
Adding a unique dimension to this ensemble is Samantha Christ François, a talented and multilingual vocalist whose journey from Haiti to Canada has shaped her rich artistic identity. Singing fluently in French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Creole, Samantha embodies a deep appreciation for culture and language. Her powerful voice and passionate delivery connect with audiences on a profound level, reflecting her belief in music as a gift from a higher source.
Together, the Miguel de Armas Quartet and Samantha Christ François create an unforgettable musical experience. Their collaboration weaves Cuban, Caribbean, Brazilian, and global influences into a rich tapestry of sound, blending technical precision with heartfelt expression. Whether performing jazz standards, traditional Cuban pieces, or original compositions, this ensemble promises a journey that is as inspiring as it is electrifying.
We acknowledge that Studio Theatre Perth is situated on the traditional land of the Anishinaabe peoples who have a longstanding relationship with the land and water throughout the region. We honour and respect the history, languages, and culture of the diverse Indigenous, Métis, and Inuit people who call this territory home. As a community theatre we have a responsibility for reconciliation and the continued stewardship of the land on which we live and work.
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MIKE IRVIN
Mike is a retired broadcast production veteran whose 43-year career includes TV & Radio production, along with a 21-year span of teaching part-time in the Algonquin College Radio Broadcasting and Theatre Arts program. His passion for radio performance has garnered several awards and recognition from industry peers and students. As Regional Production Manager at Rogers Radio, he helmed a 6-person team serving the Ottawa, Kingston and Halifax markets. He has directed various productions including commercial and news features, music specials, and podcasts.