Cosette Justo Valdés, Artistic Director

The CUBAN VIBES: A SYMPHONIC FESTIVAL takes place over 3 days on Family Day Weekend in Nanaimo in February – when Islanders need to come in out of the rain and feel the heat!  VIS Artistic Director, Cosette Justo Valdés has created a fabulous festival with world class Cuban musicians that will perform in 3 concerts – all showcasing the unique styles of Latin jazz and traditional Cuban music for February 12, jazz on February 13 and a wonderful mix of Cuban zarzuela and orchestral classics with popular Cuban music for orchestra, including son, danzón, cha cha chá and mambo on February 14.

This Festival is presented by the Vancouver Island Symphony with the orchestra performing at the Saturday afternoon and evening shows.

2 Show Series Tickets on Sale Now! Single Tickets on Sale November 12!

A NIGHT IN OLD HAVANA
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2026

7:15 PM SALSA LESSONS | 8:00 PM CONCERT

Step into the spirited world of “A Night in Old Havana” at the Opening Night of CUBAN VIBES: A SYMPHONIC FESTIVAL. Experience the pulsating rhythms and vibrant energy of Cuba through exquisite performances by world-class Cuban jazz musicians. Let the fusion of spontaneity and tradition transport you to the heart and soul of Havana, creating unforgettable memories that will linger long after the music fades.

Hosted by dynamic VIS Artistic Director Cosette Justo Valdés, this event promises an electrifying atmosphere that’s both inviting and exhilarating. Escape the mundane, come in out of the rain and feel the warmth of Havana as it comes to life on the Port Theatre stage. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this magical evening!

7:15 – 8:00 p.m. In the Port Theatre lobby: Come early and learn to Salsa dance …to get you warmed up for the show; submit your favourite photo of a Cuban holiday (ahead of the show) and view it in a collage of Cuba photos and get your photo taken in the Old Havana Café with your friends and family.
8:00 – 9:00 p.m. A Night in Old Havana
Attire: Wear your summer dresses, shorts, skirts and flipflops as if you were headed off on vacation!

Guest Artists:
Milagros de Los Angeles Soto, soprano
Harold López-Nussa, piano
Ruy López-Nussa, drums
Yandy Martínez González, double bass
Roberto Vizcaino Jr., Cuban percussion
Miguel Valdés, trumpet, Cuban percussion
Miguel de Armas, piano
Mayquel González, trumpet
Phil Dwyer, saxophones

WAVES OF LATIN JAZZ
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2026 | 7:30 PM

Experience the Essence: Waves of Latin Jazz at the Cuban Vibes Symphonic Festival

Get ready for an unforgettable second night of the Cuban Vibes: A Symphonic Festival, where the vibrant spirit of Latin Jazz merges seamlessly with the heart and soul of Cuba. The evening promises a dazzling array of mesmerizing performances by world-renowned musicians who have captivated audiences across global arenas.

Immerse yourself in the lush melodies and irresistible syncopated rhythms that fill the night air with an electric energy. This is not just a concert; it’s a jubilant celebration of culture, rhythm, and the transcendent language of music that speaks to all.

Guest Artists:
Mayquel González, trumpet
Harold López-Nussa, piano
Ruy López-Nussa, drums
Yandy Martínez González, double bass
Roberto Vizcaino Jr., Cuban percussion
Miguel de Armas, piano
Miguel Valdés, trumpet, Cuban percussion
Phil Dwyer, saxophones

CUBAN HEARTBEATS
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2026 | 7:30 PM

A thrilling evening filled with the rhythm, passion and joy of Cuban music! Join Artistic Director Cosette Justo Valdés, the Vancouver Island Symphony and her amazing guests for an evening of virtuosity and fun! Romantic arias from Cuban operettas, Cuban jazz standards and more will make this evening the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day!

Conductor: Cosette Justo Valdés

Guest Artists:
Milagros de Los Angeles Soto, soprano
Harold López-Nussa, piano
Ruy López-Nussa, drums
Yandy Martínez González, double bass
Roberto Vizcaino Jr., Cuban percussion
Miguel Valdés, trumpet, Cuban percussion
Miguel de Armas, piano
Mayquel González, trumpet
Phil Dwyer, saxophones

VIS FAMLY SHOW
CUBA IN HER CARRY-ON
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2026 | 2:00 PM

Gramma Cathy just came back from her super fun vacation in Cuba, and she’s bursting with stories to share! She found all sorts of cool music, yummy food, and fascinating customs, and she can’t wait to tell her grandkids all about her adventures! You’ll hear traditional songs from Cuba and Canada, and the musicians will have everyone singing and dancing in their seats, in no time!

About the Show: 60 minutes, relaxed audience, for Kids ages 5-10, audience participation

In the Lobby before the the Show: Get your photo taken, colouring sheets for the kids

Conductor: Cosette Justo Valdés with the Vancouver Island Symphony

Guest Artists:
Gramma Cathy: Joëlle Rabu
The Grandkids: VIS Noteworthy Kids Choir (Patricia Plumley, Choir Director)
Nico Rhodes, Music Arranger