Feel the Latin American rhythm

The 2nd annual Latin American Festival is April 17-18 at Nicholls State’s campus in Thibodaux.

Visitors can experience firsthand the steamy tango rhythms during the Alma de Tango Quartet’s performance Thursday. Tango dancers Maria and Enrigque La Motta will lead a live tango demonstration. Afterward, the audience can test what they’ve learned to the accompaniment of the Argentinean quartet’s beat.

The demonstration and musical performance is set for 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the Talbot Hall Portico.

That same evening, at 7:30 p.m., in the Talbot Theater, cellist Martin Merker and pianist Ana Adamik will keep continue the South American sounds. Chef Maria Lertora will prepare Angentinean cuisine for a reception immediately following the concert.

Friday’s performances at Talbot Hall include an all-Latin American program performed by Nicholls’ Percussion Ensemble and Blue Bayou Jazz Band. It is from 10:45 to 11:40 a.m.

That evening, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., violinist James Alexander, flautist Danilo Mezzadri and guitarist Nicholas Ciraldo will perform a Tango Concert featuring the music of Astor Piazzola. [The artists will hold an open rehearsal at 3 p.m. The public is invited to attend.] Merker and Adamik will also make an appearance.

For more information, call (985) 448-4273.