Amidst applause, nostalgic ovations, and a visibly moved audience, Mazatlán experienced a magical evening with the premiere of the musical production “Flor de Tres Raíces” (Flower of Three Roots). This original stage production—conceived and produced by renowned tenor and educator at the Municipal Center for the Arts (CMA), Eduardo Tapia—paid a heartfelt tribute to the immortal José Alfredo Jiménez and the female voices who immortalized his lyrics: Lola Beltrán, Chavela Vargas, and Lucha Villa.
The performance captivated the audience from the very first minute through a timeless, intimate encounter between these three towering figures of national folklore. Through shared memories, subtle confrontations, and emotionally charged moments, the performers revealed the profound personal and artistic mark left on them by the celebrated composer from Guanajuato. It was a display of nuances regarding love, deep-rooted identity, and the living memory of Mexico that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
The performances gave the audience goosebumps, thanks to the talent and dedication of a cast featuring Eduardo Tapia, who embodied José Alfredo Jiménez with mastery and vocal power; Sarah Holcombe, who conveyed all the boldness and temperament of Lucha Villa; Rodee Ríos, who captivated with the depth and emotion characteristic of Chavela Vargas; Gabriela Gordián, who channeled the feeling and regal presence of the great Lola Beltrán; and Regina Walter, who lit up the stage with an outstanding special appearance as Frida Kahlo. The live musical accompaniment was provided by Mariachi Centenario de Mazatlán, joined by the sensitive artistry of teacher and guitarist Luis Ornelas; together, they deeply moved the audience with superb arrangements of classics such as “Un mundo raro,” “El último trago,” “Qué bonito amor,” “Que te vaya bonito,” “La Llorona,” “El Rey,” and “Paloma Negra.” At several moments, the entire venue joined together as one voice to sing along to these cultural anthems.
The festive, family-friendly atmosphere reached its peak when the performers surprised the audience by raffling off four bottles, inviting everyone to toast to the life and work of the composer. In a heartwarming gesture, “Las Mañanitas” was performed for Mrs. Olga Ríos, the mother of one of the talented mariachi members.
At the end of the show, visibly moved by the sold-out house and the audience’s response, Eduardo Tapia expressed his gratitude for the massive turnout and the affection shown, noting the overwhelming demand for tickets. The audience bade farewell to the artists with prolonged applause and faces glowing with emotion.
