Wainwright Libre

Cuban singer-songwriter Carlos Varela performed at one of the concerts.

"Wainwright Libre" was a concert series and "fan experience" incorporating music and tourism,[1] during which Wainwright performed in Havana, and guests accompanied him for "adventures, sightseeing, fine cuisine, dancing and music", over four days and nights.[2] Participants stayed at the Melia Miramar Hotel and attended two concerts, which were scheduled to take place between September 21 and 25.[2][3] One of the planned performances was a private, solo show, and the other was open to the public and featured a full orchestra and Cuban musicians,[1] including singer-songwriter Carlos Varela.[2][3] Advertised activities included "cigar and rum tastings, rhumba and salsa dance parties, visits with Cuban visual artists, additional concerts from local musicians", a music discussion led by Wainwright,[4] and a workshop on Cuban music led by Interactivo's Roberto Carcassés.[2][3] The excursion was organized by Dreamcatcher events.[1]

Billboard described the excursion as "both an artistic and business venture" and apolitical, but noted that Wainwright "admits that politics, in this day and age, always has a role".[1] He told the magazine, "I'm not [going] to make a political statement, but being an American and living in the United States -- although I'm also Canadian -- and also being somewhat sane and reasonable, it's impossible not to be political at the moment."[1] Furthermore, Wainwright said of the relationship between Cuba, the United States, and their cultures: "It's about the meeting of these two movements, which is a tried-and-tested tradition between the United States and Cuba, and now more important than ever considering what's happening politically in both countries."[1]

The visit marked Wainwright's fourth to Cuba; he was reportedly inspired to perform in Havana after visiting the city's opera house during one of his travels.[1] Wainwright and Varela know one another, having performed together at a party for one of Wainwright's friends.[1] Prior to the excursion, he listened to Cuban music, especially underground music, which he also experienced during his travels to the country.[1]

Details of the "experience" were confirmed by Music & Arts Live in March 2017.[2] Wainwright said in a statement:

I've played with orchestras all over the world, and it's a very powerful experience that I'm excited to try in Havana. Cuba is a complete and utter revelation in terms of its historical treasures, vibrant presence and interesting future. I can't wait to share that with my fans! I'm sure it will be a great party, and we'll dance the night away. I think it's important to remain open and proactive about sharing who we are as a society, engaging in cultural exchanges, learning about other people, and really enhancing America's reputation as ambassadors.[2][3]

He also said of the event's purpose, "I hope you walk away from the trip with new friends, memories, and a sense of the interesting realism of the place and the fantastical dream world that it can also engender. Cuba has an amazing mix of both elements."[4]

• 2017 in Cuba
• 2017 in music

• Rufus in Havana