Three talented musicians from Uruguay, members of Conjunto Bantu, are preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Minnesota this April. They will be joined by Conjunto Bantu’s director, Tomas Olivera, who founded the group in 1971 with the mission of preserving and promoting Afro-Uruguayan traditions through the vibrant rhythms of candombe drumming and dance. These musicians have dedicated themselves to sharing their culture and history, and now they have the incredible opportunity to perform on several dates across Minnesota.

While their flights have been generously covered by personal and corporate donations, as well as support from a local nonprofit, there are still important expenses that need to be met. The musicians need funds to pay for their travel visas and daily living costs during their two-week stay in Minnesota. Additionally, they are not receiving paid time off from their main jobs, which makes this cultural exchange both an honor and a financial challenge.

Your support will help cover these essential expenses, allowing the musicians to focus on their performances and fully participate in this unique cultural exchange. By contributing, you are helping to bring the rich traditions of Afro-Uruguayan music and dance to a wider audience, and making it possible for these artists to share their passion and heritage. They are excited to display Afro-Uruguayan culture, history, and music through candombe drumming and dance. You can see them perform on:

- Tuesday, April 7 at 6:30 PM, La Estancia Steakhouse, 4751 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis

- Thursday, April 9 at 6:00 PM, Java River, 210 S 1st St, Montevideo

- Sunday, April 12 from 1:00-3:00 PM, Landmark Center, 75 W 5th St, Saint Paul

- Tuesday, April 14 at 6:30 PM, La Estancia Steakhouse, 4751 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis

Other events TBD.

Thank you for helping make this dream a reality!