What do you have in common with Afrobeta and Jose El Rey? No, not a police rap sheet as thick as a phone book, comprised mostly of various counts of public intoxication and indecent exposure. You shouldn't assume that of Afrobeta just because it's true of you (sorry Jose, but no one would believe me if I tried to clear your name). I meant that if you're Latino, or even just grew up with Latino friends, you've all no doubt partaken at one point or another, as I have, in that most hallowed of celebrations: la quinceñera (Sweet 15's?). And even though we're grown up, we'll do it again this Thursday at the Vagabond.
photo by Jipsy, nefariousgirl.com A scene from last year's fiesta
Just the thought elicits memories of the scents of Cuban catering -- Blue Sky, anyone? -- and the sounds of Black Sheep and Poison Clan intermingling with Willy Chirino and Hansel y Raul (pa' los viejitos). Not to mention the gaudiest decorations you can conceive of, tweaked to the tenth power.
Have you ever seen a 15-year-old girl roll into a party on a Cinderella
coach drawn by white horses? I have. Ever seen an adolescent Latina in
a princess' ball gown lowered from two stories above on a golden swing?
If you have, and that season of your life is way behind you, then you
may just jump at the opportunity to relive those days. And if you
haven't, you should get a taste of what you've missed.
That's where Vagabond comes in. This Thursday you'll get your opportunity to share in just such sparkly sequined festivities when we celebrate Dyamilet's 15th birthday in style. But the big difference between this quince and those you may have attended in the past? This one won't suck.
On the contrary, this one will be tracked by tunes by ghetto-tech space-funk duo Afrobeta, as well as your very own King of Miami Pop, Jose El Rey. They all promise that it it'll kick more ass than Usnavy when he found out his twin brother Usmail was dating Ysmeida behind his back. (Consequently, none of them are invited.)
I've been informed that the order for lechon, maduros, morros, and postre have all been placed and friends in Dyamilet's court have choreographed a spectacular number to entertain the masses in attendance. Come get your quince on!
Shake presents Dyamilet's Quince, with Jose El Rey and Afrobeta. Thursday, April 30. The Vagabond, 30 NE 14th St., Miami. Doors open at 10 p.m. Admission is $10, or $5 with RSVP to [email protected], and includes dinner. Ages 21+ with ID. 305-379-0508; thevagabondmiami.com
