LEWISTON – King’s Bridge Theatre will open its 2007 Concert Series with a one-night only appearance by Grupo Esperanza of Portland, a nine-piece Afro-Cuban band.

The group will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 21, at KBT’s new resident stage at the Vineyard Auditorium, 12 Foss Road.

Grupo Esperanza features a jazz-influenced, three-piece horn section and a traditional Salsa rhythm consisting of percussion, bass, and piano. Playing a mix of Cuban standards and original dance music, ranging from salsa to Latin jazz to funky Afro-Caribbean grooves, the ensemble won the 2006 Portland Phoenix’s Best Music Poll Award for Best World Music Act.

Tickets, $8, may be purchased in advance or at the door, subject to availability. For more information, call 784-9500 or log on to www.kingsbridgetheatre.org.

Second in the fall concert lineup is singer/guitarist Noel Rosa, scheduled for Friday, Oct. 5; followed by the comedy improvisation group Wingnuts, Oct. 19; A Moment’s Notice Jazz Quartet, Oct. 26; and singer/songwriter/guitarist Jim Gallant, Nov. 9.