Cuban singer-songwriter Carlos Varela has announced the rescheduling of his concerts originally set for November 14 and 15 at Miami's Flamingo Theater Bar. The delay is a result of prolonged processing of his work visa by the U.S. consulate in Madrid.
"Dear friends, I regret to inform you that due to circumstances beyond my control, the concerts on November 14 and 15 at the Flamingo Theatre (Miami) must be postponed," Varela shared on his social media profiles.
He added, "My work visa has been in administrative processing at the U.S. consulate in Madrid for over a month, and without its approval, I cannot travel. My attorney and I initiated all the necessary procedures for this visa over a year ago."
The artist expressed his deep disappointment, noting that he has never encountered such an issue with his visa before. "It's truly unfortunate that this is happening. I go through this process every year, and this is the first time I've faced something like this," he stated.
Varela reiterated his commitment to his Miami audience, where his performances typically sell out weeks in advance. "Tickets were sold out months ago, and I know this affects your planning, expectations, and mine as well. My team, my musicians, and I were ready and remain prepared to resume the tour as soon as the visa is confirmed," he said, referring to his song "Guillermo Tell."
He also mentioned that for now, the December 19 and 20 dates at the same venue are still on, "unless this situation continues." "We will announce the new dates when possible. May God bless you all," the musician concluded.
The Flamingo Theater Bar announced on Instagram that Carlos Varela's new performances are scheduled for December 19 and 20, following the complete sell-out of the November dates.
The statement ends with a phrase capturing its essence: "Since the world began, one thing is certain, some build walls and others build doors."
Among the comments on his post, Cuban actor Luis Alberto García remarked: "The ministry over there is also overstepping its bounds."
Carlos Varela has performed numerous times in Miami, always receiving a warm welcome from the audience. In one memorable performance, he shared the stage with Willy Chirino, celebrating Cuban music as a bridge between generations. He also performed "Una palabra" alongside Cimafunk at the Flamingo Theater Bar, delivering a duet that was highly praised by the audience.
The troubadour also participated in a tribute to Pablo Milanés, singing with Leoni Torres and Haydée Milanés at the James L. Knight Center in Miami—a night filled with emotion and memories. On another occasion, he shared the stage with Leoni Torres during the last of three sold-out concerts in the city.
Varela had initially announced his November performances on August 14, with the message "Miami, see you very soon!" accompanied by the show's poster.
Carlos Varela's Visa Delay and Concert Rescheduling
Why were Carlos Varela's Miami concerts postponed?
Carlos Varela's concerts were postponed due to delays in the approval of his work visa by the U.S. consulate in Madrid.
When are the rescheduled dates for Carlos Varela's Miami concerts?
The rescheduled dates for Carlos Varela's concerts at the Flamingo Theater Bar are set for December 19 and 20.
How has Carlos Varela's audience reacted to the postponement?
While disappointed, Carlos Varela's audience is understanding of the situation, as the delay is beyond his control.