I met Ginger Leigh in Italy over 25 years ago, when I was working in showbiz and she was performing at the Folkest Festival. Later I had her open the Italian concerts of The Chieftains that I was then organising. An internationally acclaimed vocalist and performer, Ginger Leigh was then, and still is, an unforgettable force of nature.
Daina Jasmine Ventura: Ginger, welcome to San Miguel de Allende. We're thrilled to have you here for two special concerts. What excites you most about performing in this city?
Ginger Leigh: Thank you. I'm so happy to be here. San Miguel de Allende has an undeniable magic—its rich history, artistic spirit, and warm community make it a perfect place for music. Every time I perform, I want it to feel like a shared experience, a moment we all create together. This city is the ideal backdrop for that kind of connection.
DJV: You've built a fascinating career as both a musician, an interior designer and an event producer. How do you balance those worlds?
GL: I see them as different expressions of the same creative force. Music is my soul—it's how I connect with people emotionally. Interior design is about crafting beautiful, functional spaces that inspire, and event production brings people together in unforgettable ways. At the core of it all, I love creating experiences that make people feel something, whether it's through a song, a space, or a special event. Balancing them is about staying passionate, organized, and always open to new inspiration.
DJV: Your performances are known for their energy and emotional depth. What inspires your songwriting?
GL: Life. The ups, the downs, the big love, the heartbreak, the wild adventure of it all. My music is deeply personal, but I write with the hope that people see themselves in the songs. When a lyric or a melody resonates with someone, that's the ultimate reward.
DJV: You've performed all over the world. What makes each show unique?
GL: The audience. I bring the same fire to every performance, but every city, every venue, every crowd has a different rhythm. That's what keeps it exciting. I feed off the energy of the people in the room—it's like an unspoken conversation between us.
DJV: What can San Miguel audiences expect from your upcoming shows?
GL: A lot of soul, a lot of fun, and a whole lot of passion..My shows are about more than just music—they're about feeling alive. Expect a mix of my original songs, stories that make you laugh (or maybe cry a little), and a performance that will leave you buzzing with good energy.
DJV: You're bringing not just one, but two incredible performances to San Miguel de Allende. Can you tell us more about the difference between the two shows?
GL: Absolutely. I'm thrilled to be showcasing two very different musical experiences.
On Saturday, March 8 at 5:30, in celebration of International Women's Day, I'll be performing a jazz set at Teatro Ángela Peralta with talented local musicians. Jazz has always been a passion of mine—I love the freedom and soul of it. Back home, I lead a 9-piece jazz variety ensemble called "Straight Up with a Ginger Twist," so this show is truly a dream come true. Think Bette Midler meets Etta James—big vocals, playful sass, and deep, heartfelt emotion.
Then, on Wednesday, March 12 at 6pm, I'll be performing a completely different kind of show with my longtime musical partner, John Pointer at the Teatro Santa Ana. This will be an acoustic set, featuring stripped-down, intimate versions of songs we normally perform with a full band. Our music blends powerful vocals, intricate harmonies, and moments that range from playful to deeply moving—sometimes laughter, sometimes goosebumps, sometimes even tears. John is an extraordinary musician, and together, we create a unique energy that feels like we're channeling the same spirit, humor, and passion in our own distinct ways.
DJV: That's an exciting mix. How do you approach switching between genres like jazz and your more contemporary acoustic performances?
GL: I've always loved using my voice in various genres—it keeps me inspired and constantly evolving as an artist. Jazz, for me, is about storytelling and emotion in a way that's free-flowing and expressive. My acoustic performances with John are more raw and deeply connected, almost like an unfiltered conversation with the audience. Whether it's jazz, rock, pop, or singer-songwriter, the goal is always the same—to make people feel something real.
DJV: Sounds like two can't-miss experiences Any final words for your San Miguel readers?
GL: Come to one or both shows—I promise you'll walk away with a full heart and a happy soul. Music is about connection, and I can't wait to share these moments with you. See you there!
Daina Jasmine Ventura was born in Milan, Italy. She worked in show business for almost 40 years, as tour manager, booking agent and promoter, both in Italy and internationally. She moved to San Miguel in 2013, where she stayed eight years. Since 2021 she has come back for part of the year. She helped organise some concerts in SMA: the flatpicker and singer-songwriter Beppe Gambetta and, three years ago, the percussionist-poli-instrumentist Christopher Garcia (also in duo with legendary bass player Michael Manring) who played with Salomon Maawad.
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