Celebrating a Decade of Rhythm and Community in Kansas City
Hey there, Kansas City! If you’re in the mood for a night filled with exhilarating music and a whole lot of heart, you’re in for a treat this Saturday. The band Making Movies is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of their album *A La Deriva* with a special concert at The Ship in the West Bottoms. Doors open at 9 p.m., and trust me, you don’t want to miss the show at 10! Grab your tickets online if you haven’t already!
Meet Making Movies
Now, let’s get into what makes Making Movies so special. This isn’t just any band; it’s a unique fusion of Latin and North American sounds fronted by the incredibly talented Panamanian brothers, Enrique and Diego Chi. With a sound that NPR describes as “sensual, smoky, and seductive,” it’s no wonder this group has amassed a huge international following since forming in 2009.
For those who haven’t experienced the magic of Making Movies live, picture this: distorted guitars layered under irresistible Latin grooves, catching fire beautifully. I can personally vouch for how thrilling their performance was after catching them at the Crossroads Hotel last October; it left me absolutely blown away!
A Heartfelt Mission
But there’s more to this band than just their catchy tunes. The Chi brothers are also deeply committed to giving back to their community through their nonprofit organization, Art As Mentorship. What began as a weeklong music camp roughly 14 years ago has blossomed into a year-round program for young students in the Kansas City area. Enrique expressed his passion for connecting students with renowned musicians to help them with job skills and mental health challenges.
The program is active at around a dozen locations in schools across Kansas and Missouri. Kids who participate get to dive into the entire artistic process—from writing and recording to promoting their creations. Enrique believes strongly that “art has value outside of commercialization,” and his desire to nurture the next generation of musicians is a testament to that philosophy.
Stories from the Heart
Let’s not forget the young people who have been positively impacted by this initiative. Meet Isabella Burch, an 18-year-old freshman at Rockhurst University. She’s one of the many students who have benefited from Art As Mentorship. For six years, Isabella engaged in a multitude of programs that introduced her to various instruments, playing a key role in her personal development. “It was my coping mechanism,” she shared, reflecting on how music helped her navigate the ups and downs of being a teenager in Kansas City.
Isabella is a prime example of the program’s success. Starting as a singer and songwriter, she credits the organization for keeping her engaged and away from negative influences. She refers to Enrique as a father figure, stating, “He helped me get so many opportunities.” The energy that pulsates during a Making Movies performance spills over into the community work, creating a vibrant atmosphere of joy and positivity.
Join the Movement
If you’re feeling inspired and want to support this incredible program, there’s a way for you to get involved! Kansas City businesses and generous individuals can donate to Art as Mentorship by heading over to artasmentorship.org. Your support can help us uplift young lives and nurture future artists.
So, mark your calendars for Saturday night, and come celebrate the rhythm, the community, and the heart of Making Movies. Let’s pack The Ship and show our love for local talent making waves both on stage and off!
