Nicolas Reyes has been the leader and co-founder of the Gipsy Kings for well over 30 years. When Nicolas’ father, Jose Reyes’ celebrated flamenco duo Manitas de Plata (notably loved by Miles Davis and Pablo Picasso) disbanded, a new project was formed between the father-son duo; Los Reyes. In later years, Nicolas began playing in the town of Arles in the south of France. He traveled throughout the country, busking on the streets of Saint-Tropez, playing wherever he could. Having adopted the perpetual motion of the gypsy lifestyle, his band eventually translated “Los Reyes” and became the Gipsy Kings.
Their music has since fused with popular culture, with the band having played some of the world’s greatest stages, from the Hollywood Bowl to Royal Albert Hall as well as hitting the big screen. Their rendition of “Hotel California” was included in the film The Big Lebowski and the HBO series Entourage, with the 2010 film Toy Story 3 featured a Gipsy Kings version of the movie’s popular, Randy Newman-penned theme, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”.
The once-in-a-generation transformation is complete. After five years, Bristol Beacon is open.
You’re invited to step inside and feel the music once more. Amazing acts for curious cats. Music sensations for every generation. For the movers and shakers, the music makers – the doors are open.
After five years and £132 million (the second-largest investment in England by the Arts Council this century), Bristol Beacon have completed their regeneration project, re-inventing the venue.
The Beacon has four distinct spaces: Beacon Hall, Lantern Hall, the Bridgehouse and the Weston Stage.
Beacon Hall is the heart of the venue - it's flagship stage, with a capacity of up to 2,000 and a packed programme of massive names and events constantly updating. Designed for the best possible acoustics, it's a truly showstopping venue.