Discover the Arts: New Jersey Concert & Event Spotlight

Event Title: Uncensored Voices: An Evening of Global Poetic Songwriting and Activism

When: Friday, November 21, 2025 at 7:30 PM

Where: Victoria Theater (on the Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage)

Categories: Jazz, World Music, Poetry (Part of the exclusive Jazz Series)

Tickets: Available Now

A Powerful Convergence of Poetic Song and Activism

Prepare for a memorable night as legendary and rising stars of Cuban and American songwriting converge for a unique concert event that celebrates the power of words, music, and artistic freedom. This exceptional showcase features artists whose careers are deeply interwoven with social commentary and heartfelt expression, promising an evening that is both musically rich and profoundly moving.

Headliner: Carlos Varela

Experience the poetic soul of Cuba with Carlos Varela, an iconic singer-songwriter whose prolific 30-year career has been dedicated to giving voice to “the problems of my people.” His complex, powerful lyrics offer a captivating look at the promise and pain of Cuban life across generations. Despite facing censorship, Varela’s songs, like the globally resonant “Una Palabra,” continue to prove his belief that “Words can transform… They can change your life.” Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness an artist whose music shakes bones and reaches the soul.

Featured Artist: Jackson Browne

Joining Varela is the legendary rock artist Jackson Browne. A longtime admirer and collaborator, Browne is a songwriting powerhouse with eight GRAMMY® Award nominations and an illustrious catalog of hits, including “Running on Empty” and “Take It Easy.” Known for threading activism into his life and songs, Browne’s performance underscores the deep connection between art and social change, especially through his work on Varela’s translated song, “Walls and Doors.”

Featured Artist: Diana Fuentes

The stage will also shine with the talent of Diana Fuentes, a celebrated Cuban singer-songwriter. Known for her radiant vocals and her vibrant fusion of Pop, R&B, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, Fuentes rose from performing with Carlos Varela’s band to become a Latin GRAMMY® nominee. As the first Cuban woman signed to Sony Music Latin since the legendary Celia Cruz, her career highlights include two Gold and one Platinum Record, establishing her as a formidable global music force.

Opening Act: Rodrigo Toscano

The evening commences with the impactful work of Rodrigo Toscano, an experimental poet and activist. As the author of twelve esteemed poetry collections, Toscano’s writing is praised for its “interrogative momentum that crosses borders,” setting a thought-provoking and engaged tone for the musical acts to follow.