• Promotional artwork for Ritchie Forever: An Ode to an American Dreamer. On the right, a young male performer with dark slicked-back hair sings passionately, eyes closed, wearing a dark jacket and guitar strap. To his left, an elaborate artistic arrangement of roses crafted from vintage newsprint and sheet music blooms with decorative teal and gold scrollwork vines, set against a deep black background framed with an ornate border.
SEP 2026 02 WED 7:30 pm
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Global Music | USA
Ritchie ForeverEpstein Family Amphitheater
  • Tickets: $35–70
  • UCSD Student: Limited Free Tickets via SSO
Bites & Beverages

About

An Ode to an American Dreamer

Ritchie Forever: An Ode to an American Dreamer is a live multidisciplinary production celebrating the enduring legacy of Ritchie Valens and his profound influence on American music, Chicano identity, and the cultural landscape of Southern California. Led by East Los Angeles’ Las Cafeteras alongside special guests, the production weaves together live music, storytelling, and archival visuals to reimagine Valens’ music and legacy for a new generation.

More than a traditional retrospective concert, Ritchie Forever explores themes of migration, bicultural identity, youth rebellion, romance, and the evolving sound of Southern California. Through contemporary reinterpretations of Valens’ catalog and a collaborative ensemble of musicians and performers, the production honors the pioneering spirit of one of rock & roll’s foundational artists while connecting his story to the multicultural realities of today.

Ritchie Forever continues its journey through Southern California as a communal celebration of memory, heritage, and musical innovation.

Featuring: Hector Flores (Las Cafeteras), Denise Lopez (Las Cafeteras), Jose Varela (Cutty Flam), Angie Monroy (The McCharmlys), Irene Diaz, and special guests TBA.

 

Details

Gates open 6:30 pm

Bites & Beverages

Snacks and drink will be available for purchase in the venue. Please note: Food vendors are cashless. For more info, please email artpower@ucsd.edu.

Getting Here

The Epstein Family Amphitheater is located at 9480 Innovation Ln, La Jolla, CA 92093.

Take the Trolley: The amphitheater is located next to the Blue Line Trolley, UCSD Central Campus Station. For more information about the trolley, visit the MTS website >

Parking

The closest parking structure is Gilman Parking Structure. UC San Diego requires parking permits 7 days a week. Permits can be purchased at permit machines or through the Parkmobile App. Visit UC San Diego Transportation for information on where to buy your permit, and costs.

Fees

Ticket prices are inclusive of fees.
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