Laraaji’s Subversive Love at the Aztlan Theatre

Photography by Lydia McCann

On Friday, February 14th, KGNU Community Radio and Caracol Productions presented a Universal Love show, featuring music from Laraaji, Gi Gi, FOANS, and MAAM hosted at the historic Aztlan Theatre. 

Ambient glows illuminated the Aztlan’s beautiful adornments while otherworldly music filled the atmosphere. Crowd members were woven together in collective bliss. The combination of calming music and the rich history of this venue resulted in a special energy. 

If anyone embodies Universal Love, it’s the Aztlan’s owners, Aurora & Timeo Correa. Since 1972, Timeo Correa –a longtime Chicano activist– has used the Aztlan to showcase love; it has been an important community space for decades. 

Located in the Santa Fe Art District, the original Santa Fe Theater opened in 1927 and was used to screen films and host vaudeville entertainment. When Correa purchased the theater in 1972, he renamed it the Aztlan to represent the Aztec ancestral homeland. Correa began using the space to host Spanish-American film screenings, community meetings, and iconic live music events.

An impressive array of music legends such as Selena, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Run DMC have played at the Aztlan. Correa has used the theatre for fundraising efforts, hosted an anti-gang education conference, and even saved a life. 

“I met a man who asked if we could do a fundraiser. His baby needed a new heart, but he couldn’t afford it. We agreed to help him and his baby was able to get a new heart,” Correa illustrates.

This theater is not just a physical landmark of activism, but has transformed into a space of comfort, safety, life, and love.

Unfortunately, massive property tax increases have put Aurora & Timeo Correa’s lovely Aztlan in a vulnerable position. The community may lose this sacred space of resistance and love. Despite these financial difficulties, the Correas are still bringing incredible art to Denver with their venue. 

Universal Love upheld the history and energy of the theatre, featuring peaceful, deep breathing, movement and transcendental energy. Laraaji’s songs shimmered like water, flowing with ambient calm. His meditative tunes spread smiles throughout the crowd. With a multi-instrumentalist flair and experience with piano, zither and mbira, Laraaji has created a new path for ambient music. 

Producer and DJ Gi Gi cultivated euphoric trip-hop, bookending the performances. Local gems MAAM and FOANS added to the ethereal electronic vibe. With sounds like this, you can’t help but feel yourself grooving into the rhythm and letting go. 

Lovers swayed in each other’s arms, friends grinned as experimental sounds flowed through their limbs, and each attendee was mesmerized by the magical soundscapes. 

The show occurred on Valentine’s Day, which often carries an expectation for single and coupled folks alike. Whether you’re recovering from a breakup, in a happy relationship or anywhere in between, there is a societal pressure to engage in romantic love, especially on this occasion. 

Universal Love at the Aztlan Theatre subverted these expectations, instead expanding love to the broader community. Laraaji knows the importance of staying lighthearted, echoed in whimsical tunes like Cosmic Joe. His contagious laughter reminds us that joy is all around us.

In his song “Who’s In Love?” Laraaji asks us: “Who’s in love with this vision of peace?, Who’s in love with possibilities?, And who’s in love with the sky forever? Beyond there’s no never, everything can be.”

Listening to this glimmering music feels like imagining yourself on a new planet. Part of creating a better world and fostering love is having the courage to dream of better spaces. Finding peaceful moments is especially needed in chaotic times.  

Love is taking the time to celebrate incredible music. It is letting loose and trying something new. It is showing up for your community and loved ones. We should treasure spaces that allow us to let go and experience tranquility with others. 

Support an essential Denver Landmark, the Aztlan Theatre, by attending upcoming shows. Another night of unforgettable music just occurred on Friday, March 14 with a performance from The Space Lady. You can also donate to their GoFundMe to help with the property tax bill or attend their live music events on the First Friday Art Walks.

Don’t miss out on these incredible transcendental experiences and check out Laraaji, Gi Gi, FOANS, and MAAM to experience this peace yourself.