Celebrating La Cultura: Latin Fest Brings the Rhythm

Dancers light up the stage with an energetic Bachata performance, celebrating the culture of the Dominican Republic. *Photo: Gabriela Huachi Cabrera*

By STEFANIE RYKHLO and DILAN BELOW

The stage lights dimmed, the curtains opened, and within seconds the auditorium erupted with cheers. Midwood’s fifth annual Latin Fest kicked off on October 8, its vibrant color and rhythm transforming the stage into a loud and proud celebration of Latin American culture.

“Latin Fest students amaze me year after year,” said Ms. Nora Diaz Guevara, one of the show’s longtime advisors. “Everyone did a wonderful job with only 25 days to put it together.”

This year’s production was led by commissioners Camila Reyes ‘26 and Mai-Lei Desouza ‘27, who helped coordinate the show from start to finish. For Desouza, Latin Fest was a completely new experience. “I actually have never been involved in Latin Fest before and picked this role solely because I wanted to see how it was like to run a school festival through the eyes of a director,” she said. The role came with numerous challenges, including last-minute changes, but Desouza said that’s simply “part of the process.”

Meanwhile, Reyes has been contributing to the production since freshman year, saying what inspired her to join was how welcoming everyone was. “I remember not knowing how to dance or anything and the directors at the time being so patient to teach me,” she said. “That sense of community and being there for each other is the reason I come back.”

Following speeches from commissioners, the production began with an original play, written and performed by students across all grades. The plot centered on a struggling family torn apart by financial hardship and conflict. When the revolution takes a tragic turn, they are left to accept their lives in a world forever changed by loss and sacrifice, ultimately finding strength.

“The message of the play is that even though times can be tough and it can seem like there’s no way out, things will change,” said Reyes. “Sometimes you have to make sacrifices for the change to be made.”

From dancing, singing, and creative poetry to acting and modeling, the energy was contagious. The show featured a mix of Tribal, Punta, Bachata, Merengue, Cumbia, Reggaeton, Brazilian Funk, Haitian, Dembow, and traditional Salvadorian baton dance, with each performance representing a distinct aspect of Latino culture.

Students passionately embraced the beauty of their roots with striking costumes, energetic moves, and music from all throughout Latin America, from the fast-paced beats of Honduras and El Salvador to the tropical rhythms of the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. The audience roared with excitement as each group took the spotlight.

Mexico’s rendition of the song “Canción del Mariachi” by the rock band Los Lobos was a crowd favorite. Performed as a lively mariachi-inspired dance duet with Mr. Julio Hernandez and Darilynn Atitla ‘26, their unexpected collab stunned fans, who clapped and sang along.

“I wasn't expecting to see Mr. Hernandez perform,” said Nicole Chen ‘26. “It was so fun and exciting; it really made the show an unforgettable experience.”

The crowd was also captivated by the modeling segment, where students boldly represented their heritages, walking proudly with each country’s flag and attire.

Nashla Báez ‘27, the modeling director and choreographer of the Dembow dance, said, “I got to present my own creativity to the audience while also representing my country, which I love and hold so close to my heart.” She added, “Hearing all those people cheering and screaming my name made me feel like a piece of my identity is being recognized and cherished.”

Kenya Bolds ‘27 modeled for Belize and described it as a first-time experience she ended up loving. “My favorite part was definitely the beginning when I started walking from behind the curtain,” she said. “I was persuaded to do Latin Fest by my friends, but I really enjoyed it! Nashla helped me improve my walk and add more personality to my routine.”

For Cuban and Panamanian model Jeremyah Kitt ‘26, the journey was memorable. “I loved representing Latin American cultures and feeling the energy from the audience,” he said. “Everyone was really hyped.”

The cast and crew also found time for fun in between rehearsals. “A moment that stuck with me so far would be our little karaoke moments with our members where everyone would sing their hearts out after practice,” Reyes said.

By the end of the final number, applause filled the room, and the audience was full of passion and spirit. Latin Fest is not just a show; it’s a celebration of hard work and culture that students get to showcase with pride and joy.

“Now I get why everyone is always talking about Latin Fest! It's a show everyone needs to experience at least once,” said audience member Anastasiia Savchyn ‘26. “It taught me so much about Latin culture and traditions that it made me want to learn more.”