Benefit concert for Ecuador features locally loved artists

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Israel Cuenca, an IT, sound and video engineering assistant with the University’s School of Music is throwing a benefit concert to support his home country of Ecuador in its efforts to recover from a devastating earthquake.

The Hope for Ecuador Benefit Concert will be 6-8 p.m., May 22, in Comstock Hall and feature beloved local acts such as Harry Pickens, Appalatin, Carly Johnson and Craig Wagner, Michael Tracy and Winton Reynolds, Lunares Flamenco Ensemble, the Reese Land and Carlos Cuenca duo, Sarah Stivers Band, Jerry Tolson Band, Daniela Carrion and Paula Andre Duo (Ecuadorian Singers). A $10 donation is suggested.

“This event will bring together hundreds of people for great music, dancing and community support in a lively atmosphere,” Cuenca said. “The people of Ecuador need help and this is a way our Louisville community can help them.”

A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Ecuador April 16 with the epicenter in the province of Manabí, in the Ecuadorian coastline, where many cities and villages have been completely destroyed. Reports estimate more than 660 deaths, 15 people missing, 4,000 injured and 33,757 people directly affected, having lost their homes and sources of income.

Funds raised will go to Water Step, Sister Cities, Red Cross Ecuador and the Minister of Social Inclusion in Ecuador, which are all providing on-the-ground disaster relief.

Click here for tickets. Follow the effort on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For more information, contact Cuenca at israel.cuenca@louisville.edu or 502-507-2210.