Lead Actor Modesto Lacén Reprises Role as Celia Cruz’ Husband, Pedro Knight
MIAMI – Celia: The Life and Music of Celia Cruz, the hit Off-Broadway musical about the legacy of Latin superstar Celia Cruz, ended its 9-month New York City run with its final performances on Memorial Day Weekend 2008.
The celebratory tribute to the three-time Grammy-winning “Queen of Salsa” garnered glowing praise from New York’s theatre and social elite. Liz Smith of the NY Post said of Celia, “(it’s) an explosive musical, don’t miss it”. With its extended run, the musical exceeded box office expectations at the New World Stages theatre in Manhattan and now embarks on an international road tour.
From June 16 through July 6, the play will be showcased at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Miami. Based on the groundbreaking 60-year career and colorful persona of the Cuban music legend, Celia pays tribute to Celia Cruz, the award-winning singer and ambassador of Hispanic culture throughout the world.
Modesto Lacén
Actor Modesto Lacén will reprise his role as Pedro Knight, Cruz’ devoted husband of 41 years. Lacén received major acclaim from New York’s theatre critics for his passionate portrayal of Knight and he welcomes the opportunity to take the story of Celia Cruz to the rest of the world.
Anissa Gathers as Celia Cruz and Modesto Lacén as Pedro Knight
Lacén says, “After such a successful run in New York City, I, and the entire cast, look forward to bringing Celia’s amazing tale to the citizens of Miami and to all audiences that yearn to be uplifted by her indomitable spirit.” Lacén, who has been featured in the films Dirty Dancing 2: Havana Nights and The Animal (which stars Terrence Howard), is also currently starring in the indie release Las Dos Caras de Jano, which is now being showcased on the U.S. film festival circuit.
English and Spanish versions of the musical Celia will be presented (check scheduling) and tickets are available at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office and through Ticketmaster. After the Miami run is completed, the musical will journey to the Canary Islands for a 3-week tour starting October 12. ¡Azucar!
