More than 50 musicians will take the stage in Mérida next week for a symphonic rock tribute to Queen, staged as much in support of one of their own as in tribute to the band.
The Universidad de las Artes de Yucatán (UNAY) will present the Concierto Rock Sinfónico “Queen con Manolo” at 8 p.m. Tuesday, August 25, at the university’s Caja Negra venue. The show doubles as a benefit for Manolo López, a UNAY director, composer and teacher who is currently going through a health situation and, organizers said, could use the support of his community.
The concert brings together three of UNAY’s performing groups — its symphony orchestra, popular music ensemble and vocal ensemble — for a set list built around Queen staples including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” “We Are the Champions,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Killer Queen,” “Under Pressure,” “I Want to Break Free,” “Radio Ga Ga” and “We Will Rock You.”
UNAY rector Domingo Rodríguez Semerena said the production blends the force of rock with the depth of a symphonic and choral arrangement, calling it a chance to hear Queen’s catalog from a different angle.
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López himself will lead the musical direction, backed by solo vocalists Aletza Peña, Johana Torres and Abigail Coral. Rivelino Quiroz directs the popular ensemble, and Conchita Casals leads the vocal ensemble. The lineup also includes Juan Carlos Quintal on samples and piano, Diego Pierre on piano, Nathan Ajpop and Sol Castillo on guitar, and Ramiro Heredia and Diego Blanco on bass.
Symphonic tributes to Queen have become something of a fixture on stages well beyond Mérida this year — a Mexico City production drew crowds earlier in 2026 — but the UNAY show carries a more personal note, built around the idea of a university community showing up for one of its own.
For a look at how UNAY students have shown up in Mérida’s public spaces before, our earlier coverage of the school’s role in the city’s cultural festivals offers useful background on the university’s presence beyond the classroom.
Fast facts
Concert: “Queen con Manolo,” Tuesday, August 25, 8 p.m.
Venue: Caja Negra, Universidad de las Artes de Yucatán (UNAY)
More than 50 musicians across three UNAY ensembles
Proceeds support UNAY director Manolo López
With reporting from La Jornada Maya
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