“De Puerto Rico para el mundo”

A heartwarming production

Migration is a reality that has affected Puerto Rico and our people for generations. Puerto Ricans have made Hawaii, New York, Florida, Santa Cruz and the Dominican Republic their home. This year, Popular selected the theme of the diaspora for its new music production, “De Puerto Rico para el mundo”.

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Andy Montañez e integrantes Zona de Bomba (Photo: Business Wire)

“Every year we look for a theme that is relevant for everyone on and off the island. This year, the special is dedicated to migration, a reality that has been present for so long in our country’s history. The production is enriched with interviews of individuals who have had this experience. Through the one hour music special, we want the public to know what Puerto Rico is, its people, its history and its dreams, in and out of the Island. Without a doubt, Puerto Ricans are more than 100 x 35," said Richard L Carrión, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Popular, Inc.

Filming took place in Puerto Rico, New York, Chicago, Hawaii, Santo Domingo, Florida and Santa Cruz. In the scenes one can see the places where Puerto Ricans have moved and the continuity of the traditions, even in very distant places such as Hawaii. The production also reflects the feelings of those who decided to return and their reasons to stay in Puerto Rico.

The music special’s production was led by Calma Films, under the direction of Mariem Pérez and Carlitos Ruiz, and the production of Ilia Vélez. The musical direction was led by Luis Amed Irizarry.

"It is a privilege for us to be able to direct a piece that we know will deeply connect with the audience. We are part of the migration and we understand that more than ever Puerto Ricans are representing our country in many areas, so we can say, with conviction that we are much more than an Island, we are a nation," said Mariem Pérez, Director of production.

The production includes artists such as Manolo Ramos, Zona de Bomba, Tommy Torres, Ismael Miranda, Jeimy Osorio, PJ Sin Suela, Kristal Fonrodona, La Tribu de Abrante, Siete Nueve, Pedro Capó, Obie Bermúdez, Jowell and Randy, Sebastián Otero, José Feliciano and Andy Montañez, among others. In addition, it includes interviews from Puerto Rican artists that have excelled in Hollywood such as Rita Moreno, Luis Guzmán, Justina Machado, Amaury Nolasco and Roselyn Sánchez, among others.

"Directing the musical part was very important for me and the team. We searched for songs and created arrangements related to the theme and that were going to resonate with the artists. We know that this piece will be remembered for having a diversity of rhythms and genres that represent the influence of migration on the local musical scene. We always keep emerging artists in mind and we use this production as a platform to showcase their talents," said Luis Amed Irizarry, musical director.

Some of the music special’s songs include: Un verano en Nueva York, Feliz Navidad, Patria, I like it like that, Lamento borincano, Bomba para afincar, Borinquen bella, Quién no se siente patriota, La tierra de papá, Salimos de aquí, Yo soy como el coquí, El viejo de San Juan y En mi Viejo San Juan.

The special will be broadcast on Sunday, December 4, 2016 at 8pm by the main channels of the Island, by Telemundo at 4pm ET in the United States and by Internet at www.depuertoricoparaelmundo.com. As in previous years, part of the funds raised from sales of the CD and DVD will benefit the Banco Popular Foundation which will distribute financial support for schools and organizations with musical programs.

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Popular, Inc.Natacha Vale, [e-mail]