~ Mano and Lito @ Bamboo House ~
This Saturday, March 18, Mano and Lito – the famous gypsy guitar duo – return to Bamboo House for a dynamic performance. The sultry sounds of the Gypsy Kings, combined with Bamboo House’s mesmerizing views, luxurious raw bar, exquisite cocktails and intimate setting will make for an unforgettable night you won’t want to miss!
Bamboo House is hosting the event as they have had the pleasure of bringing Mano and Lito to St. Maarten for almost 15 years – the guitarist and vocalist are old friends of Bamboo House.
Popular around the world, guitar duo Manolito the Gypsy plays a mix of flamenco, Latin and world music. Their soulful gypsy style of music and rhythm is contagious. As they sing and play guitar, they transport their audiences through a journey that moves them to dance, sing and cry.
Based in southern France, Mano and Lito travel the world performing across the United States, Europe, South America and many other places. From major concert halls to luxury weddings, private parties, corporate events, anniversaries, and special celebrations, Manolito the Gypsy certainly know how to seduce and entertain their audience.
Mano (lead guitar/vocals)
Manolo, whose real name is Phillipe Bourgues, was born in Avignon, France. His dexterity and passion for flamenco guitar made him into the protégé of world-famous flamenco guitarist Manitas de Plata (aka The Little Silver Hands). Manitas became his mentor and together they shared stages performing and enchanting audiences.
During the 1960s, Manitas De Plat, father of Gipsy Kings lead guitarist Tonino Baliardo and his cousin Jose Reyes, father of Gipsy Kings lead vocal singer Nicolas Reyes introduced the world to the gypsy rumba flamenco, performing in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Manitas was always so impressed by Manolo’s lighting fast dexterity, talent, passion and experience with the guitar that he baptized him as Manitas de Oro (The Golden Hands).
Lito (lead singer/guitar)
Lito, whose real name is Joseph Cortes, was born in Avignon, France. From an early age, he discovered that singing was deeply rooted in his soul. At age 15, he began to study professional guitar and singing.
ln 1993, Lito joined Chico, one of the original founders of the Gipsy Kings, and went on tour performing at myriad venues and concerts. Gypsy Kings lead vocalist and co-founder, Nicolas Reyes, is also a relative of Lito’s. He not only writes his own original songs, but also composes fabulous musical arrangements in his studio.
Throughout his career, Lito’s mesmerizing voice, combined with his amazing stage persona, has earned him several music awards including Best Flamenco Vocalist in both 1988 and 1989.
Together, the duo has travelled and toured around the world delighting audiences everywhere, from royals and monarchs to A-list celebrities, such as Bill Clinton, Madonna, Donatella Versace, Michael Jordan, Mick Jagger, Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez.
Manolito will play three one-hour sets. The 8:00pm seating is full, but there are still reservations for the 6:00pm, which will include a gorgeous sunset, and the late 10:00pm show under the stars.
Admission for this unforgettable show is $25. Of course, guests are welcome to stay for a second or third show form the bar. For reservations, go to www.bamboohouse-sxm.com or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for groups of six or more.
