A Celebration of Culture, Community, and Creativity in Salem
Fusion Fest is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of cultures, a convergence of art forms, and a joyous gathering for the Salem community. With a fantastic blend of live music, dance, food, and arts, Fusion Fest brings us all together at The Gables for an unforgettable experience.
Fusion Fest: A Colorful Tapestry of Sounds and Flavors
Rosario Rivas will perform her own Tango-inspired compositions with G Rockwell and Noah Harrington.
This lively gathering will be held at The House of the Seven Gables on Sunday, August 13, from noon to 5 p.m. and is open to all, free of charge. Fusion Fest is a joyful merging of Salem’s diverse population and its many cultures.
Set in the beautiful lawn of The Gables, Fusion Fest not only entertains but also honors The Gables’ adult students who attend ESL and citizenship classes. The day will be packed with:
- African/Caribbean drumming with Greg Coles, including a mini-lesson (12:00 – 12:30 p.m.)
- Cuban salsa by Boston Casineros, featuring Amanda Rodrigue & Alejandro Castro (12:45 – 1:15 p.m.)
- Argentinian Tango with singer/songwriter Rosario Rivas, accompanied by G Rockwell and Noah Harrington (1:30 – 2:00 p.m.)
- Acoustic guitar by Felipe Collazo (2:15 – 2:45 p.m.)
- Puerto Rican dance BOMBA Antillana with Eli Pabon (3:00 – 3:30 p.m.)
- Capoeira with Capoeira Brasil/New England and Breno Martino (3:45 – 4:15 p.m.)
…and much more, including food truck offerings, lawn games, and art exhibits.
A Historic Connection
Since its founding, Salem has been home to people from around the globe, and The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association has supported new residents since 1910.
In the words of Ellen Berry, The Gables’ settlement and education programs manager, Fusion Fest highlights the cultures and achievements of their students. This year alone, 45 of the 350 students from 17 countries have become U.S. citizens!
Spotlight: Rosario Rivas
Among the talented artists, 19-year-old Rosario Rivas from Argentina will perform her unique interpretations of Tango music. Now attending the New England Conservatory, Rivas is thrilled to bring Tango to the audience and share her passion. Her performance begins at 1:30 p.m.
“I’m excited to bring Tango to people here. I’ve been in this country a year now, and I’m very happy to share with people from Latin America, too; among those in attendance will be people who can relate to me and who can understand what I am saying.” – Rosario Rivas
More Than A Gathering
Fusion Fest is a real merging of cultures, community, and arts. Countries represented include Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Columbia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti, Italy, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Spain, and Ukraine.
Proceeds from English-language house tour ticket sales during Fusion Fest will be given to a participating Ukrainian humanitarian organization.
Join the Celebration!
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to engage, enjoy, and embrace a rich cultural experience. Visit Fusion Fest’s official website for more information, or join the event on Facebook.
About The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association
With the mission to be a welcoming, thriving, historic site and community resource, The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association engages people of all backgrounds in our inclusive American story. Learn more at www.7gables.org
