Viva Mexico!

Looking for something fun to do? Our Latin Nights Event starts this Thursday, come celebrate Cinco de Mayo with us all month long!

We have so much going on this week with the  the ongoing Zumba classes that are taking place on Mondays and Tuesdays from 6-7pm in the Essex Room,the opening of the Retail Shop and Ice Cream, Our L. Dexter Woodman Golf Tournament and Fundraiser and the introduction of our new Latin Nights events at the Lobster Trap!  You may be thinking what does Salsa dancing and fried clams have in common, right?

We wanted to take the time and explain to you a little bit about the man, Franco Lazo Morales and how he came into our lives here at Woodman’s of Essex. It began four years ago when 4^th generation Vanessa Woodman ventured off to teach English in Tulum, Mexico.  It was here that she learned Spanish and fell in love with the Latin American culture in which she was immersed.  Already with a deep appreciation for the arts, having studied dance in West Africa, performed in the Fringe Festival in Scotland and traveled to many a-concert she immediately felt at home with the vibrant performance art culture Tulum had to offer.  In her free time when she wasn’t teaching, she was able to participate in the ongoing array of musical happenings, as well as join a dance company and perform in the many community events organized by the Casa De La Cultura (Cultural Center) in Tulum.

In 2008 she met Franco Lazo Morales, musician and producer and they began their long journey of applying for his visa, eventually immigrating to the United States.  Franco has been with Woodman’s for almost two years now, living in Beverly, MA.  He has performed on Monday nights at the Top Deck as Franco and the Midgies, as well in both restaurant locations and our Spookyworld events in Litchfield, NH. Along with performing his unique style of Reggae and Trova music (Mexican Folk) he adores Latin America’s musical culture which encompasses a vast array of genres from Cumbia to Banda and Salsa to Reggaeton.  As a performer Franco is a pleasure to watch, his smile and energy light up the room.  As a producer he has creative vision and hopes to share his talent with his North Shore audience and although you may not understand all of the lyrics, if you immerse yourself in the music and fiery culture of his events, the message will become clear.

 While Franco and Vanessa were living in Tulum, they also had the opportunity to meet another musical talent, Edsel Barrios.  He was, at the time, working with another band and has since relocated to Malden to live with his wife Michelle. Edsel has brought with him an energy and enthusiasm that is second to none.  His DJ sets are rhythmic and innovative, guaranteed to get you up and dancing.  While you’re at it, he will teach you a few steps and combos along the way.  By the end you will be moving, swerving, spinning and twirling and having a blast, all along the way!

So come and celebrate this lively culture with us and ignite the passion within you!  Learn to dance, expose yourself to new sounds and let us bring a little piece of Mexico to you!

These events will be taking place all month long at The Lobster Trap.  Doors open at 7pm and there is a $5 cover charge.  You don’t have to dance but we invite you participate in our beginners dance classes with Edsel Barrios and encourage you to stay for a live musical performance by Franco Lazo Morales with special guest Michelle Barrios.  Remember some like it hot, and the rest can go home!