Gloria Estefan's rhythm gets Dubai

The inaugural "Rhythm and Reels" programme of the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) got off to a glorious start on Thursday with Gloria Estefan's first ever concert in the Middle East and the premiere of 90 Millas, a documentary produced and directed by her husband Emilio Estefan.

Raised in the United States, Gloria has stayed true to her Cuban roots through her music. Her latest album is a tribute to Cuban music and to the legends of Latin music.

Generations

It features collaborations with three generations of Latino musicians including Cachao, Israel Lopez, Paquito D'Rivera, Nelson Gonzalez, Andy Garcia, Jose Feliciano, Carlos Santana, Sheila E., Arturo Sandoval, Pit Bull and Wisin & Yandel.

90 Millas El Documental traces the history and evolution of Cuban music through conversations with legendary musicians. For lovers of Latino music it is a treasure trove of information.

From Chocolate explaining how to tune the "Tres" and Feliciano reminiscing about being advised to change his name to Cachao, the film captures the essence of Cuban music and the struggle by Latino musicians in the US to keep their culture alive.

It expresses their deep longing for their country and desire to bridge the distance between Key West, Miami and Cuba - the 90 miles that separate them from their homeland.

"This film means a lot to me and this is an evening I will never forget," said an emotional Emilio Estefan. He was joined on stage by Johnny Pacheco.

"This year I celebrated my 50th anniversary as a band leader and I want to thank you all for making it possible. We are proud to be Latinos and proud of our music and this film is our legacy for a new generation to learn about this simple sound with a unique energy that makes people dance," he said.

And dance we sure did. From the moment Gloria walked on to the stage she had the audience on their feet. Dressed in a black skirt and full sleeved blouse, the singer took her fans on a wonderful musical journey spanning her entire career.

She began on a perfect note with Mi Tierra (My Lovely Land) a song that connects with all those who are living away from their country.

Interactive

She then asked everyone in the audience to turn around and shake hands with the people behind them setting the tone for a highly interactive concert.

The singer exuded warmth and energy as she took the audience through a range of emotions from her soft romantic first Number One hit Can't Stay Away From You to the throbbing beats of 1,2,3 and The Rhythm is Gonna Get You and from her inspiring 1976 Olympics theme song Reach to the pathos filled Esperendo (Waiting).

A highlight of the concert was the performance on the drums by Gloria's 13 year-old daughter Emily Marie.